Robertson and caine LePard 46, Owner'S Manual

Page: 23 / 100

OWNER’S MANUAL
A1010 3 Cabin Segue 110V Original Dated Sept 2006.doc Page 23 of 59
HOW IS A PERSON AFFECTED BY CARBON MONOXIDE
Carbon monoxide is absorbed by the lungs and reacts with blood haemoglobin to
form carboxyhemoglobin, which reduces the oxygen carrying capacity of the blood.
The result is a lack of oxygen for the tissues with the subsequent tissue death and, if
exposure is prolonged, death of the individual. Altitude, certain health related
problems and age will increase the effects of CO. Persons who smoke or are
exposed to high concentrations of cigarette smoke, consume alcohol or have lung
disorders or heart problems are particularly susceptible to an increase in the effects
from CO. However, all occupants’ health should be considered. Physical exertion
accelerates the rate at which the blood absorbs CO.
Carbon monoxide in high concentrations can be fatal in a matter of minutes. Lower
concentrations must not be ignored because the effects of exposure to CO are
cumulative and can be just as lethal.
SYMPTOMS OF CO POISONING – The sequence of symptoms listed generally
reflects the order of occurrence in most people; however, there are many variables
that affect this order of symptom manifestation. One or more of the following
symptoms can signal the adverse effect of CO accumulation:
1. Watering and itchy eyes,
2. Flushed appearance,
3. Throbbing temples,
4. Inattentiveness,
5. Inability to think coherently
6. Loss of physical coordination
7. Ringing in the ears,
8. Tightness across the chest,
9. Headache,
10. Drowsiness,
11. Incoherence,
12. Slurred speech,
13. Nausea,
14. Dizziness,
15. Fatigue,
16. Vomiting,
17. Collapse,
18. Convulsions.