Here are some seasonal dangers to watch out for every winter:
Antifreeze
- Antifreeze is a poisonous liquid used in cars. It has a sweet taste. Children and animals like its taste. If even a little is swallowed, it can be harmful. It can cause kidney damage and death.
- Keep antifreeze, and all strong chemicals, in the containers they came in. Cap tightly, and store in locked cabinet.
- Before throwing away an antifreeze container, rinse with water. Replace cap and put in the trash.
Salt
- If eaten, salt used on driveways and sidewalks can harm a pet or child.
- Store this type of salt with other poisons. Keep it out of reach and in a locked cabinet.
Carbon Monoxide (CO)
- CO is a leading cause of poison deaths. It causes many thousands of illnesses.
- CO is a poisonous gas. It has NO color, odor, or taste. ALL fuel-burning devices make CO. They do this mostly when they aren’t working properly, or are not used in a ventilated space. CO can collect in closed areas.
- Sources of CO include: gas furnaces, gas water heaters, gas stoves, gas ovens, kerosene space heaters, wood and gas fireplaces, wood-burning stoves, power generators, and car engines.
- Signs of CO poisoning: headaches, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, confusion, unconsciousness.
- Persons at greatest risk: pregnant women, infants, young children, older people, people with breathing and heart diseases.
- PREVENTION IS KEY! Have at least one CO alarm in your home. The best places are near bedrooms and close to furnaces.
- Have your heating system, vents, and chimney checked every year by experts.
- Always follow product instructions for installing and repairing appliances that burn fuel.
- Never burn charcoal inside a house or garage.
- Never use a gas oven to heat a house or apartment.
- Never use unvented fuel-burning devices in a house or apartment.
- Never run a car in a closed garage.
No comments:
Post a Comment