A Guide to Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Symptoms
How to Ensure your Safety against Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Hotels
Carbon monoxide or CO is commonly known as “The Silent Killer”. Having no odor, color, or taste, it is a poisonous gas that is difficult to detect. According to the Centre for Disease and Control, it is a cause of death for approximately 500 people yearly, and hospitalization for 10,000 more, in the United States alone. Among the most worrisome contributors to health hazards related to CO are hotels and motels without CO detectors. To date, there is no law or mandate requiring that CO detectors be placed inside these establishments; consequently, a significant risk of CO poisoning exists for travelers. The need for carbon monoxide detectors has never been more apparent.
What is Carbon
Monoxide Poisoning?
Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can block the
absorption of oxygen in the bloodstream. It is produced by the incomplete
combustion of fossil fuels, becoming significantly more lethal in non
ventilated rooms, and in buildings where modern insulation limits air
circulation. All appliances, heaters (including water heaters), and cars
should be maintained regularly to prevent dangerous levels CO emissions.
Travel and Carbon Monoxide Safety
Prior to booking a hotel or motel, inquire as to whether or not
high quality CO detectors are installed throughout the building. By law,
hotels in the United States are required to install CO detectors if they
have had a previous incident of CO poisoning; however, many claim to have
them installed, but in order to save money, do not.
Popular Portable Carbon Monoxide Detectors
To ensure your safety, you can bring a portable carbon monoxide detector
with you on your trips. The newest model is the Costar P-1, and after
its 5 year testing off-market, it should be ready by January 2008 for
consumer purchase. The device is small enough to be conveniently kept
in your car, purse, pocket, and especially important, your hotel room.
At an average price of $45.00 US, you are buying yourself peace of mind.
Currently, the most popular detector, according to about.com, is the First Alert Plug-in Carbon Monoxide Detector with digital display. This device comes with a remote control test/silence, and an AC battery backup. It samples the air once every second, and has an internal memory chip that stores the highest levels of carbon monoxide detected.
Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Symptoms of CO poisoning include headaches, dizziness, nausea,
vomiting, weakness, chest pains, and confusion. High levels of carbon
monoxide can cause loss of consciousness and death. Because the symptoms
mimic other common illnesses, it is often hard to determine if poisoning
has occurred. If you think that you might be experiencing carbon monoxide
poisoning, do not hesitate to get to the nearest hospital.
The importance of a carbon monoxide detector is immeasurable, as it is during sleep that most CO deaths occur because people do not experience any of the symptoms while asleep. Do not let your vacation become a tragedy; bring a portable CO detector.
About the Author: Alexandria Haber is a freelance writer and is the head researcher and content manager for http://www.carbon-monoxide-poisoning.com/.