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Shaw Fire Emergency Services reminds Team Shaw: Take action to stay safe from CO poisoning

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  • By 20th Civil Engineer Squadron
SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. --  Heating and cooking devices that burn fuel can be sources of carbon monoxide, a chemical nicknamed the invisible killer because of its ability to hide from sight or smell.

"More than 150 people in the United States die every year from accidental non-fire related carbon monoxide poisoning," said Jake Matthew, 20th Civil Engineer Squadron fire chief.

Recently a resident here found out how valuable a carbon monoxide detector can be after their alarm sounded, alerting them to increased levels of carbon monoxide inside their home.

Common symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include flu-like symptoms and can be confused with food poisoning and other illnesses. Headache, nausea, dizziness, light-headedness, and shortness of breath are potential symptoms of moderate carbon monoxide poisoning.

High level carbon monoxide poisoning produces symptoms including mental confusion, vomiting, loss of muscular coordination, loss of consciousness, and ultimately death.

Shaw fire and emergency services want to remind Team Shaw residents to take action to stay safe from carbon monoxide poisoning by taking the following instructions:
· Install carbon monoxide alarms in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of the home.
· Test carbon monoxide alarms at least once a month.
· Know the different sounds the alarm makes.
· Replace batteries regularly.
· If an alarm sounds, get to fresh air. Move outdoors, by an open window, or near an open door. Make sure everyone in the home, including pets, gets to fresh air. Then call the fire department from a fresh air location, and stay there until help arrives.

The Shaw fire and emergency services recommends taking these steps to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning:
· Do not run a fueled engine indoors, even if the garage is open.
· Clear all debris from dryer, furnace, stove, and fireplace vents.
· Use generators outdoors, in a well-ventilated area.
· Only use grills outdoors.
· Have heating equipment inspected annually.
· Open the damper or flue when using a fireplace.
· Never use an oven or stove to heat a home.

To find out more about carbon monoxide alarms contact Michael Davis, 20th CES fire inspector at (803) 895-4600 or visit the National Fire Prevention Agency's website: www.firepreventionweek.org.