ARKANSAS, USA — As more people are turning on their gas fireplaces and heaters this time of year, firefighters are emphasizing the importance of having a carbon monoxide detector.
Because carbon monoxide gas is odorless and colorless, a carbon monoxide detector is one of the only ways to know if there are dangerously high levels of the deadly gas present.
“During this time of year, heating appliances do put off a little carbon monoxide, and those detectors are really important to have in your home so that you can detect [the gas] before it's too late,” said Chief Willie Watts with Fayetteville Fire Department.
“It's usually gas-associated appliances or natural gas appliances or propane appliances, things that have a flame that burns inside of them, and it's usually a product of some incomplete combustion or a piece of equipment that's not operating properly,” Watts said.
Chief Watts said the carbon monoxide detector should be placed near the gas appliance.
Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include a long-lasting headache, nausea and confusion, and it can eventually lead to death.
Chief Watts said if you suspect you have a carbon monoxide leak in your home, go outside and call 911 immediately.
For more information on Carbon Monoxide, click here.
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