How to keep your family safe from carbon monoxide

A security system protects loved ones from the outside world. What about the internal threats? Carbon monoxide is one of the most serious threats that faces your family.

Carbon monoxide, or CO, is a poisonous, odorless, and colorless gas that can kill. More than 25,000 Americans are affected by CO exposure every year. Out of these, over 500 people die from carbon monoxide poisoning.

With cold weather, carbon monoxide poisoning becomes a greater risk. The winter months – December, January, and February, respectively – account for 36% of CO poisonings. How do you keep your family safe?

Start with a sensor

Carbon monoxide detectors do just what the name says – detects carbon monoxide. If there is any CO detected in the house, this sensor lets sends an alert immediately. This monitored device is integrated into the existing security system. If there is any alarm, tamper, or battery condition message, you’re notified immediately so you won’t miss a thing.

Service CO systems

Preventing carbon monoxide poisoning is easy by having heating systems, water heaters, and any other gas appliances serviced by a qualified technician each year. Checking the systems when the seasons start to change is especially important, since the heating system or gas fireplace hasn’t been used for a while.

Properly vent 

No matter what type of home you have, every house has a few gas appliances. Make sure all equipment is properly vented by making sure the pipes are in the proper place. Such as, make sure horizontal pipes as they go outdoors, like on a water heater. This prevents a carbon monoxide leaks if the joints or pipes are fitted properly.

Watch for the symptoms 

CO poisoning presents itself with “flu-like” symptoms. So, it is important to be aware of what the symptoms look like and how they differ. Carbon monoxide comes across as a headache, dizziness, weakness, upset stomach, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion. Knowing what to look for is crucial, and if you believe you have CO poisoning, you need to seek medical attention right away.

During the cold months, it’s important to start protecting your family from more than burglary. Carbon monoxide detectors are the first step in preventing harm. Add a CO detector to a home security plan today, and enjoy peace of mind.