Protect Your Home From Carbon Monoxide

Three possible carbon monoxide deaths last weekend is a reminder to protect your home from the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Putnam County Emergency Management Director Tyler Smith said a carbon monoxide detector is the best line of defense.

“Have a carbon monoxide detector. People in campers who are out camping, that’s where a lot of deaths occur where they have a faulty gas heater or a stove that’s got a line that’s broke,” Smith said. “That gas, it’s deadly, you don’t know that it’s happening until it’s too late. Just make sure you have that carbon monoxide detector that way it’ll alert you if there are high levels of carbon monoxide.”

The gas forms when a heat source doesn’t have enough ventilation in an enclosed space. Smith said a detector is especially necessary if you have gas heat in your home.

“Carbon monoxide is an odorless gas. In areas where you’ve got a stove, burning something inside the home, or a faulty exhaust even in cars,” Smith said. “You can get carbon monoxide into a faulty exhaust system.”

Cumberland County authorities responded to a home last week and found three people dead inside. It’s believed carbon monoxide played a factor in the deaths as authorities reportedly found an unventilated propane heater in the home.

The Tennessee Health Department said the gas can also form from gas furnaces, generators, or  burning charcoal and wood. Smith adds physical warning signs include dizziness, feeling faint, and difficulty breathing. If you experience these symptoms, immediately move to fresh air and call 911.

For more information on prevention visit the TN Health Department website.