The silent killer

  • Published
  • By Michael E. Newbury Jr.
  • Tyndall Fire & Emergency Services
TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  Often called "The Silent Killer," carbon monoxide (CO) is an invisible, colorless, odorless gas created as a byproduct of burning, or the incomplete combustion of fuel. In the home, heating and cooking equipment that burn fuel (i.e. gas ranges or boilers) are potential sources of carbon monoxide. Vehicles or generators running in a garage can also produce dangerous levels of carbon monoxide.

The dangers of CO exposure depend upon a number of variables, including the victim's health and activity level. Infants, pregnant women and people with physical conditions that limit their body's ability to use oxygen (i.e. emphysema, heart disease, asthma) can be more severely affected by lower concentrations of CO than healthy adults would be. The symptoms of poisoning can be confused with other known illnesses such as flu or food poisoning and commonly include headaches, nausea and shortness of breath or light headedness.

It is highly recommended if you have gas appliances in your home, you have CO detectors installed. Detectors vary significantly and should always be installed and maintained according to the specifications provided by the manufacturer. At a minimum, detectors should be installed in a central location outside each separate sleeping area. If bedrooms are spaced apart, each area will need a detector.

If CO detectors sound the alarm or if you suspect you are feeling symptoms related to CO exposure, immediately move yourself and others to a fresh air location and call 911. Remain out of the area until it is deemed safe by emergency responders or other qualified personnel.

Tyndall's Fire and Emergency Services Flight offers the following safety tips to help you reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning:
  •  Install CO detectors to provide early warning of accumulating carbon monoxide.
  •  Test detectors in accordance with manufacturer's instructions.
  • Have fuel burning equipment such as fireplaces, furnaces, water heaters, inspected by a qualified professional every year before cold weather sets in.
  • When purchasing new heating and cooking equipment, select products that have been tested and labeled by an independent testing laboratory.
  • When using the fireplace, open the flue to ensure adequate ventilation.
  • Never use your oven to heat your home.
  • When buying a home, have a qualified technician verify the integrity of the heating and cooking systems.
  •  When warming a vehicle, remove it from the garage immediately after starting. Do not run a vehicle, generator or other fueled engine or motor indoors, even if garage doors are open.
  •  Only use barbecue grills outside. Never use them in the home, garage, carport, Florida room or near building openings.

For more information, please call John Powers or Michael Newbury at (850) 283-2909 or email fire.prevention@tyndall.af.mil.