Carbon Monoxide Information

           You can’t see, smell or taste carbon monoxide but, at high levels, it can kill a person within minutes.  Whenever any fuel such as gas, kerosene, wood, oil or charcoal is burned, carbon monoxide (C.O.) is produced.  The same is true whether you reside in a single family home or an apartment.  Properly utilized and maintained, most appliances do not give off hazardous levels of C.O.  However, malfunctioning or improperly used appliances cause hundreds of accidental deaths per year. 

            The United States Environmental Protection Agency states that “…Prevention is the Key to Avoiding Carbon Monoxide Poisoning…” You can protect your family in your home by:

Having all of your fuel-burning appliances checked by a professional.  This includes flues and chimneys.

            Choosing appliances that vent fumes outside whenever possible.

Providing proper ventilation by opening a window slightly if you must use an unvented gas or kerosene space heater.

            Installing a C.O. detector/alarm.  .

            Never idle your car in the garage – even if the garage door is open.

            Never use a gas oven or range  to heat your home.

            Never use a charcoal grill in the house.

            Do not sleep in a room with an unvented gas or kerosene space heater.

            Do not use gas powered engines in enclosed spaces.

            Never ignore symptoms of C.O. poisoning.  These include: headaches, dizziness, mental confusion, nausea or feeling faint.  If  you experience these symptoms, you should get fresh air immediately by opening doors and windows, shutting off combustion appliances and leaving the house.  You should also go to the emergency room for treatment. 

            If you or someone you love is the victim of CO poisoning which was caused by the negligence of a third party (such as a utility company, landlord, etc.), you may have legal recourse for your damages. 

            You need the advice of someone who deals with these situations every day.  You need an attorney who specializes in these claims to protect your rights and get you the compensation you deserve. 

            Our firm has been representing the victims of accidents for over 25 years and  I have had the privilege of working with some of the best attorneys in this country  If you or a member of your family have been the victim of C.O. poisoning, I invite you to fill out an online consultation form or engage in an online chat.    

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