Carbon Monoxide: Silent but Deadly
The incomplete combustion of alkanes and other carbon-containing fuels may produce carbon monoxide (CO). It is a common component of furnace, stove, and automobile exhaust. Normally these fumes are emitted into the air and dispersed. However, anytime CO gas is released into closed spaces, lethal concentrations may develop. All the following are known to have caused CO poisoning deaths: poor ventilation of a furnace or stove exhaust, running an automobile for a period of time in a closed garage, idling the engine of a snowbound car to keep the heater working, and using a barbecue grill as a source of heat in a house or camper (burning charcoal generates a great deal of carbon monoxide). About 1000 Americans a year die from unintentional CO inhalation; and as many as 10,000 require medical treatment.
Carbon monoxide is dangerous because of its great ability to bind with hemoglobin in red blood cells. When this occurs, the ability of the blood to transport oxygen (02) is reduced because the CO occupies the site normally occupied by 02.
Because it is colourless and odourless, carbon monoxide gas is a silent and stealthy potential killer. The following symptoms of CO poisoning are given in order of increasing severity and seriousness:
1. Slight headache, dizziness, drowsiness
2. Headache, throbbing temples
3. Weakness, mental confusion, nausea
4. Rapid pulse and respiration, fainting Possibly fatal coma
Except the most severe cases of CO poisoning are reversible. The most important step in first-aid treatment is to get the victim fresh air. If people feel ill and suspect CO poisoning, they should evacuate the residence, get fresh air immediately, and summon medical assistance.
Consumer safety experts stress that people should have combustion appliances inspected regularly for leaks or other malfunctions. The Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends that people invest in CO detectors and install them near bedrooms. Carbon monoxide monitors sound an alarm before the gas reaches toxic levels.