It’s in the headlines every day. So, it’s no wonder that families across the country are misdiagnosing flu-like symptoms as the H1N1 virus. Among the more serious illnesses being mistaken for H1N1 is carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, which can cause symptoms that closely resemble the flu including nausea, headache, dizziness and even death. As temperatures cool down, and thermostats heat up, the risk of both flu and CO poisoning increases. So it’s important to know what’s really affecting you when flu-like symptoms strike.
The easiest way to eliminate CO poisoning as a possibility is to install carbon monoxide alarms that detect the invisible, odorless gas before symptoms have the opportunity to become severe. Yet, nearly one-half of Americans report not having CO alarms in their homes, according to a survey by BRK Brands, maker of First Alert-branded products.
Below are a few additional tips from First Alert on how to keep your home CO-safe this winter season:
- Check CO alarms monthly by testing the function and replacing batteries as needed. If you can’t remember the last time you replaced an alarm, change it. CO alarms should be replaced every five years.
- For maximum protection, install CO alarms through the home, including one on each level and outside of every sleeping area
- Have furnaces, central heating units and water heaters inspected and serviced each year to ensure proper performance.
- Take proper precautions when using fuel-burning generators or other fuel sources to cook, light, cool and/or heat the home.
