Possible Sources; Co Safety Tips; Symptoms Of Co Poisoning - Kidde 10SCO User Manual

Possible Sources

CO can be produced when burning any fossil fuel: gasoline, propane, natural gas, oi l
and wood. It can be produced by any fuel-burning appliance that is malfunct ioning,
improperly installed , or not ventilated correctly. Possible sources include furnaces,
gas ranges/stoves, gas clothes dryers, water heaters, portable fuel burning space
heaters, fireplaces, wood-burning stoves and certain swimming pool heaters.
Blocked chimneys or flues, back drafting and changes in air pressure, corroded or
disconnected vent pipes, can also caus e CO. Vehicles and other combustion
engines running in an attached garage and using a charcoal/gas grill or barbecue in
an enclosed area are all possible sources of CO. Do not BBQ in enclosed spaces.
The following conditions can result in transient CO situations:
Excessive spillage or reverse venting of fuel-burning appliances caused by outdoor
ambient conditio ns such as: Wind direction and/or velocity, including high gusts of
wind, heavy air in the vent pipes (cold/humid air with extended periods between
cycles), negative pressure differe ntial resulting from the use of exhaust fans,
simultaneous operation o f several fuel-burning appliances competing for limited
internal air, vent pipe connections vibrating loose from clothes dryers, furnaces, or
water heaters, obstructions in, or unconventional, vent p ipe designs which can
am plify the above situations, extended operation of unvented fuel-burning dev ices
(range, oven, fireplace, etc.), temperature inversions which can trap exhaust g asses
near the ground, car idling in an open or closed attached garage, or near a home.

CO Safety Tips

Every year have the heating system, vents, chimney and flue inspected and cleaned
by a qualified technician. Always install appliances according to manufacturer's
instructions and adhere to local building regulations. Most appliances should be
installed by profes sionals and inspected after installation.
Regularly examine vents a nd chimneys for improper connections, visible rust, or
stains, and check for cracks in furnace heat exchangers. If at any time you discover
any faults, contact a qualified technician. Verify the color of flame on pilo t lights and
burners is blue. A ye llow or orange flame is a sign that the fuel is not burning
completely. Teach all household members what the alarm sounds like and how to
respond.

Symptoms of CO Poisoning

Initial carbon monoxide poisoning symptoms are similar to the flu with no fever and
can include dizziness, severe headaches, nausea, vomiting and disorientation.
Everyone is susceptible but experts agree that unborn babies, pregnant women,
senior citizens and people with heart or respiratory problems a re especially
vulnerable. If symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are experienced seek
medical attention immediately. CO poisoning can be determined by a
carboxyhemoglobin test.
The following symptoms are related to CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING and
should be discussed with ALL members of the household: