Carbon Monoxide Monitoring for Your Business and Home

Harmful substances are normally associated with foul odors and visible fumes, but this is not the case when dealing with carbon monoxide (CO). This kind of gas has no color, odor or taste, hence, undetectable by human senses. It is extremely dangerous and can cause death within seconds if the concentration is high enough. CO should not be confused with carbon dioxide (CO2), which is a normal product of human metabolism, requiring a much higher concentration than CO to become dangerous.

The main source of carbon monoxide in indoor places is incomplete combustion. It can be produced from fuels such as gasoline, propane, heating oil, natural gas, coal and even wood. In other words, any appliance or building system based on combustion comes with the risk of CO emissions. This includes ovens, ranges, fireplaces and even cars in enclosed garages.

Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning

Carbon monoxide passes into your lungs and binds with your red blood cells and starves your body of oxygen.

Common symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include intense headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, fatigue, and weakness. Disorientation and unconsciousness can occur when CO reaches levels of 150 ppm or parts per million.2

Perhaps most troubling is that before symptoms turn lethal, they may appear as cold or flu symptoms like shortness of breath, nausea, or mild headaches. Carbon monoxide is the second-leading cause of poisoning in the US with the highest risk in Wyoming, Alaska, and Montana.

If anyone starts experiencing even the slightest symptoms of CO poisoning, get into fresh air and seek emergency medical care. The dwelling should be left empty and with the windows open, and the fire department should be called immediately. 

How to detect carbon monoxide?

As mentioned above, CO can’t be detected by human senses. Carbon monoxide detectors are the fastest way to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. You can install a carbon monoxide detector (or multiple detectors) in your home or office. They work much like your fire or smoke alarm by sounding an alarm when they detect carbon monoxide. The CO alarm will go off if your sensor detects a high buildup of carbon monoxide. Most people begin to feel the effects of carbon monoxide at 50 ppm, so be sure your detector can sense an amount of 50 ppm or less.3

Titan Alarm – Your CO Detector Source in Phoenix and Tucson, AZ

Titan Alarm, Inc. can install a fully integrated security system that includes lifesaving carbon monoxide detectors in the garage and other vulnerable areas in your home and office. Contact us for more information and to schedule a free in-home consultation today.