As Escambia County experiences colder weather leading up to Christmas, Escambia County Fire Rescue reminds residents to be aware of carbon monoxide poisoning.
As cases of carbon monoxide poisoning rise during the colder months, experts are cautioning how residents use their fire places, gas heaters, gas furnaces and other heating devices. Escambia County is urging residents to have a carbon monoxide alarm installed in their homes to go along with their typical smoke detectors.
According to the CDC, "carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that often goes undetected, striking victims caught off guard or in their sleep. More than 400 people in the United States die from unintentional carbon monoxide poisoning every year. More than 20,000 visit the emergency room, and more than 4,000 others are hospitalized."
"Much cooler temperatures have set in, and citizens are using fire places, gas heaters and space heaters, and many of them have not been inspected or serviced," said Escambia County Fire and Life Specialist Ray Melton. "Carbon monoxide alarms save lives and need to be installed in every home that uses gas or other fuels to heat or cook."
Low to moderate levels of carbon monoxide poisoning include:
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness
- Nausea
High-level carbon monoxide poisoning results in:
- Mental confusion
- Vomiting
- Loss of muscular coordinator
- Loss of consciousness
- Death
The Consumer Product Safety Commission warns that you should never ignore a carbon monoxide alarm, and do not try to find the source of the gas. Instead, follow these steps:
- Immediately move outside to fresh air
- Call emergency services, fire department or 9-1-1
- Do a head count to check to account for everyone
- Do not reenter the premises until emergency responders have given you permission to do so
If your home does not have a working smoke detector, please call Escambia County Fire Rescue at 850-595-HERO (4376) or 850-436-5200 for City of Pensacola residents.
REMINDER:
Escambia County Fire Rescue encourages everyone to practice fire safety especially during the holiday season. Residents are encouraged to follow these safety tips so everyone can have a safe and happy holiday:
- Remember to blow out all candles when you leave the room or go to bed.
- Avoid the use of candles in the bedroom and other areas where people may fall asleep.
- Remember to check the wires of appliances regularly and to replace or repair frayed, damages cables.
- Unplug all small electrical appliances, such as irons and toasters when not in use.
- Check smoke detectors regularly to make sure they are working properly.
- Communicate an escape plan to other members of the household in the event of a fire.
For fire safety tips and other updates from Escambia County Fire Rescue, like Escambia County Fire Rescue on Facebook.
