Inc. Carbon monoxide should be a concern in any home that has a fuel-burning appliance, such as a gas range, kerosene space heater, dryer or hot water heater. It should be checked annually for leaks or other malfunctions. It is estimated 1,000 Americans die each year from unintentional carbon monoxide poisoning. Ten times that number seek medical treatment for carbon monoxide exposure. It bears no color or odor, which makes it hard to detect.
Carbon monoxide is a slow killer as well.
It attaches to the hemoglobin on a person's red blood cells in the same way oxygen does, but it clings faster and tighter. With little room for oxygen to attach to hemoglobin on the red blood cells, the body begins to suffer oxygen deprivation. Exposure to small amounts over long periods of time are just as dangerous as exposure to greater amounts over shorter periods. Early warning sighs include vomiting, confusion and heart flutters. Prevention is key and can be accomplished easily.