What to Do If You Have a CO Leak

Carbon monoxide has been called the “Silent Killer.” That’s because it is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas which is undetectable to the human senses. Since carbon monoxide can be present in dangerous quantities in your home without human detection, this presents a huge risk to your family.

Luckily, a simple carbon monoxide detector provides a solution that keeps you and your family safe. Carbon monoxide detectors are just as important as your home’s smoke alarms. However, not everyone knows the safest procedure when there is a CO leak without a preconceived plan

This guide gives you the proper steps to take if you have a CO leak.

Get to Fresh Air

As soon as the alarm goes off, the most important thing to do is get yourself and everyone in your home to fresh air. Make sure everyone gets outside as quickly as possible, every second that passes is critical in the case of a CO leak. If it is not possible to get outside, open all the windows that you can to get closer to the fresh air. Don’t search for the leak yourself.

Call Emergency Services/Seek Medical Attention

If you have a carbon monoxide leak, call emergency services as quickly as possible. Either call 911 or the fire department as soon as you have made it to fresh air. Only professionals should be allowed to search the home for a CO leak.

If you are feeling symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning such as a headache, weakness, dizziness, or vomiting it is essential that you seek medical attention as quickly as possible. Even very small amounts of carbon monoxide in the air can have serious consequences. Seek treatment even if you don’t have any symptoms if you have conditions that could be exacerbated such as asthma.

Don’t Return Until it is Safe

Do not re-enter your home until it has been examined and cleared by emergency personnel. Remember that you won’t be able to recognize whether or not you are being exposed to the gas. It is important to keep your family away until it is safe to return to your home. If you have returned to your home and the alarm sounds again, repeat these steps. 

For a carbon monoxide alarm detector you can trust, look for First Alert. We make sure to provide the best and most reliable detectors, so you can have peace of mind that your family is safe. For a carbon monoxide detector you can trust, browse our website.