> March 4, 2016
Windsor Chamber News
March 4, 2016
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From the Town of Windsor
Carbon Monoxide Scam Alert
We've been notified that a resident received a phone call today from someone posing as the fire department trying to schedule an in-home carbon monoxide test. The Fire Department does not conduct scheduled carbon monoxide tests. We will only come to test for CO if you have first called 9-1-1. If your carbon monoxide detector sounds, immediately move to a fresh air location. Make sure everyone is accounted for. Call 9-1-1 and remain outside until emergency personnel arrive to assist you.
What is carbon monoxide?
Carbon monoxide, also known as CO, is called the “Invisible Killer” because it's a colorless, odorless, poisonous gas. More than 150 people in the Unites States die every year from accidental nonfire-related CO poisoning associated with consumer products, including generators. Other products include faulty, improperly-used or incorrectly-vented fuel-burning appliances such as furnaces, stoves, water heaters and fireplaces.
Are carbon monoxide detectors required?
Yes, in homes with any fuel (gas, oil, wood, or coal) burning appliances, CO detectors are required on each floor, except for attics and unoccupied basements. CO detectors should be tested once a month and replaced every 5-7 years. Batteries should be replaced every year, like your smoke alarms.
Know the symptoms of CO poisoning
Because CO is odorless, colorless, and otherwise undetectable to the human senses, people may not know that they are being exposed. The initial symptoms of low to moderate CO poisoning are similar to the flu (but without the fever). They include:
•Headache
•Fatigue
•Shortness of breath
•Nausea
•Dizziness
High level CO poisoning results in progressively more severe symptoms, including:
•Mental confusion
•Vomiting
•Loss of muscular coordination
•Loss of consciousness
•Ultimately death
Source: Consumer Product Safety Commission
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