Carbon Monoxide in the Home
Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can cause serious illness or death to those who inhale it. Carbon monoxide poisoning results in more than 400 deaths in the United States each year, in addition to more than 4000 injuries. Most fatalities are experienced by those over the age of 65.
Carbon monoxide is produced from combustion fumes, such as those from vehicle exhaust, burning charcoal or gas-powered home appliances. Safety officials advise all homeowners to install a carbon monoxide detector to warn occupants of high levels of the dangerous gas. However, you can take additional steps to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning from your home appliances.
- Each year, have a qualified technician service your water heater, heating system, and all appliances that burn gas, coal, or oil.
- Never use portable chemical heaters inside the home or camper. Even though the heaters do not have a flame, they still burn gas, and therefore can cause carbon monoxide to collect in an enclosed space.
- Have a technician service the cooling unit of your gas refrigerator if you ever smell an odor. This odor could indicate a defect in the cooling unit and therefore a carbon monoxide leak.
- Maintain your carbon monoxide detector, checking or replacing the battery twice each year.
- Only purchase gas equipment that carries the seal of a national testing agency.
Contact Us
If you or a loved one has been poisoned because of carbon monoxide exposure, you may be eligible to receive compensation for your related losses. The New York City personal injury lawyers of Orlow, Orlow & Orlow, P.C. can evaluate your situation and determine if you have grounds for legal action. Contact our offices today at 718-544-4100.