Most people know that high-levels of CO exposure can be lethal. But many are surprised to learn the different ways in which carbon monoxide can seep into your home and the simple precautions one can take to prevent CO poisoning. Marc J. Bayer, M.D., medical director of the Connecticut Poison Control Center and a certified medical toxicologist, says one way to protect yourself and your family is to install a carbon monoxide detector. Everyone should have both a smoke and CO detector in their house or apartment.
Carbon is found in organic fuels including oil, gas, wood, coal, charcoal and kerosene.
As these fuels burn, carbon monoxide is formed. Vented and dispersed into the atmosphere, CO is harmless, explained Dr. Bayer. Improperly ventilated or improper combustion in the heating system can bring carbon monoxide into the home. In our energy-conscious society, older homes have been caulked and insulated, and newer homes are almost airtight. If CO is released, it has no way to escape and no outside air is leaking in.