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Typical symptoms of poisoning
Low
Mild headaches, nausea, tiredness,
CO concentration
flu-like symptoms
Medium
Bad headaches, racing heart, vomiting
CO concentration
High
Cramps, confusion, unconsciousness,
CO concentration
cardiac arrhytmia
· Please note that the symptoms can occur earlier with children, pregnant
women, senior citizens and persons with respiratory or heart diseases
and even low CO levels could cause organ damage in unborn children!
Sources of carbon monoxide & preventative measures
· Carbon monoxide is created, among others, during incomplete com-
bustion processes (e.g. defective floor heating or clogged smoke outlets).
· Installing a CO alarm is not a substitute for the proper installation, use
and maintenance of fuel-burning devices including related ventilation
and exhaust gas systems.
· Have such devices/systems installed only by qualified persons. Acquire
the devices/systems in perfect technical condition and have them
regularly inspected!
· Make sure that ovens, chimneys and the like are kept clean at all times!
· Never operate barbecues, deck ovens, heating devices or other devices
intended for use outside inside closed rooms.
Formation & dangers from carbon monoxide
Behaviour in case of alarm
When a carbon monoxide alarm sends out a signal, take the following measures in
the specified order:
(1) Keep calm and open all doors and windows to increase the rate of
ventilation. Stop using all combustion devices and make sure that
they are switched off.
(2) Leave the building in particular when the CO level is high or when the
source cannot be instantly detected and alert occupants, if applicable.
(3) Call the fire service/rescue worker immediately from outside the
building. Follow their instructions. Inform them that you assume
carbon monoxide it being inhaled.
(4) Do not enter the area in question before the CO concentration has
dropped to a non-critical value.
(5) Do not use the affected combustion device until the cause of CO
emission has been removed by a professional.
(6) Check the functionality of the CO alarm after it has triggered (using
Test button) and replace the batteries if necessary.
Selecting location
General
The design and spacial distribution of residential buildings as well as the number,
type and location of carbon monoxide sources can vary greatly. However, there
are general instructions concerning where the device should and should not be
installed to keep the risk of false alarms as low as possible.
Which room? Installation for optimum safety
· In every room that contains a combustion device.
· In every room that is used as a sleeping area.
· In every hallway per floor.
Behaviour in case of alarm, Selecting location
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