Carbon Monoxide Detectors and Properly Maintained and Working Home Heating Devices
Save Lives
FOR ANTIGO TIMES
Soon our furnaces, fireplaces, and other heating equipment will be getting a work out, and the Langlade County Health Department wants to remind residents to take action to avoid carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. “To prepare for winter weather, Wisconsin residents should ensure that their source of heat and their carbon monoxide detectors are in good working order,” says Meghan Williams, Health Officer, Langlade County Health Department.
On average, carbon monoxide poisoning sends about 440 people per year to the emergency room in Wisconsin, according to the Wisconsin Environmental Public Health Tracking Program. These trips to the ER are preventable when people are prepared.
About 50% of all CO poisonings occur in the home. Williams also encourages hunters and other campers to invest in a battery-powered CO detector for use in cabins, tents, RVs, or wherever they may be camping or at the hunting camp.
The following tips will help you and your family stay warm and safe this winter season:
Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include shortness of breath, headache, sleepiness, nausea, vomiting, confusion and disorientation. At high levels, carbon monoxide can cause death within minutes. If you suspect you are experiencing carbon monoxide poisoning, or your detector sounds an alarm, head outside immediately for fresh air and call 911.
For more information about carbon monoxide, visit: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/air/co.htm
For more information about Langlade County Health Department’s programs and services, visit https://www.co.langlade.wi.us/departments/health-department/ or like us on Facebook.
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