Carbon Monoxide Safety

Carbon Monoxide is something that many of us simply don't think about, yet it can be very dangerous. Carbon Monoxide is a gas that can be created when combustible fuel doesn't burn properly or when the exhaust is not properly vented. It can come from appliances, water heaters, exhaust from your car, blocked chimney flues and malfunctioning appliances that burn fuel. If you see black soot around vents, flues, filters or appliance burners, there may be carbon monoxide present. Also, if your Natural Gas flame is yellow instead of blue, it may be present.

Follow these preventative tips and keep this list of symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning on hand you suspect a problem.

Preventive Tips:

• Make sure that chimney's are properly vented and the flue is not blocked. Cleaning the chimney regularly is also recommended as annual maintenance.
• Replace air filters regularly. If you find that it is hard to remember to change your air filter or have trouble locating one, contact Rick Butefish of www.Filters4me.com, 918-292-8600 about their easy air filter replacement program.
• Keep appliance air intake areas clear.
• Don't heat your home with a gas range or space heater.
  
• Keep your heating and air-conditioning system running properly and have regular maintenance scheduled. Call Stephen Taylor of Air Assurance at 918-258-HEAT or www.airassurance.com. to schedule a check of your heating and a/c system.
• Install a carbon monoxide detector that is UL- approved and has an audible alarm.
  
• Don't use a grill or start a lawn mower, car or any fuel burning engine in a closed garage, inside the house, or in an enclosed area.

Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning:

• Dizziness
• Ringing in the ear
• Fatigue
• Increased perspiration
• Weakness
• Vomiting
• Headaches

If you think that you may be experiencing these symptoms due to carbon monoxide poisoning, leave the property and call 911.

For more information about:

air filter replacement in Bixby OK- contact Rick Butefish, www.filters4me.com or 918-292-8600

heating and a/c repair and installation in Bixby, OK.- contact Stephen Taylor, Air Assurance, 918-258-HEAT

home maintenance needs in the Bixby, OK area- visit www.tulsahomecare.com