Carbon monoxide CO is a poisonous gas. It has no smell, color or taste. Cars, trucks, stoves and heating system makes fumes that contain CO. CO fumes can build up in places that do not have good air flow. Breathing in too much CO makes it difficult for your body to carry oxygen throughout the body. This is known as carbon monoxide poisoning.
What is the effect of CO on your child’s health ?
Anyone can get CO poisoning however it is more dangerous for babies than adults. It can lead to various health problems or even death. CO poisoning can cause the following in your child
- fainting
- confusion
- headaches
- fatigues
- brain and lung damage
- trouble breathing
- nausea
It is essential to call 911 immediately and seek medical help if you think your child has CO poisoning .
How to keep your baby safe from carbon monoxide poisoning ?
These steps can help keep your child safe from CO poisoning .
- install CO detectors in your home especially in or near your bedroom. Check the batteries often to make sure they work
- do not use oven or stove to heat your house
- have your heating system, water heater and gas, oil or coal-burning appliances checked by a professional each year
- do not use a charcoal grill, camping stove, generator or other gasoline or coal-burning equipment inside your home or any enclosed space
- do not leave your car or truck running in the garage even if the garage door is open
Content Sources
Carbon monoxide. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/disasters/environmental.html. Accessed February 1, 2016
Carbon monoxide poisoning. National Library of Medicine. Medlineplus. https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/carbonmonoxidepoisoning.html. Accessed February 1, 2016