Lethal Gas: Carbon Monooxide

Winter season is here, the chilliest the world has seen in a long time. Temperature has been forecasted to go down further in the coming few days. The use of heater is very common during this season, not many of us pay heed to the gas it leaks proving it to be a ‘silent killer’.

Carbon Monoxide (CO) is present in our surroundings because of the usage of heaters. CO is odorless as well as colorless, and one might not even be aware of its presence and the dangers it poses. Common symptoms of excess intake of CO are headache and nausea, which the general public confuses it with flu or a viral illness.

Constant exposure may lead to other symptoms such as vomiting, mental confusion, chest pain and serious medical problems at a later stage. Poisoning from CO is especially common during cold weather because of increased use of gas, oil and coal burning appliances.

Non-automobile consumer products may also emit CO. In addition to fuel-burning appliances such as furnaces, ranges, water heaters and room heaters, generators, fireplaces and charcoal that is burned in homes and areas nearby.

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