Edition 31 › Hope for Your Health › Ron and Pam Anderson

The Quiet Killer…Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Tue, 02/16/2010 - 14:43 — GentleVic


By Pam Anderson, DNM, RN, AHNA, CNHP


The Farmer's Almanac winter prediction for 2009/2010 was "numbingly cold." From where I sit, it seems the Almanac was right-on-the-money once again. We, who are experiencing a much colder, harsher winter, are looking for and plugging up air leaks while turning up the heat. The more air-tight the house, the warmer we are; but, could we be placing our lives and the lives of our loved at risk from carbon monoxide poisoning?


Carbon monoxide poisoning can happen at any time of the year; but, most accidental carbon monoxide poisonings occur during the months of December - February when alternate heating sources may be used during electric power outages.


Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas. The burning of any type of fuel can and will produce carbon monoxide. If this gas does not have an outlet, it will eventually build toxic levels within the home. Approximately 20,000 people are treated annually due to carbon monoxide exposure and in severe cases of carbon monoxide exposure, death can occur.


The initial physical complaints of carbon monoxide poisoning are common; initially many are unaware of the life-threatening seriousness of their situation. Early warning signs of carbon monoxide poisoning are: headache, dizziness, chest pain, and nausea and/or vomiting. In severe cases, agitation, confusion, and fatigue may be experience with those exposed eventually lapsing into unconsciousness.


Carbon monoxide poisoning is preventable. You can protect yourself and your family by following these simple suggestions:




1. Install a battery-operated carbon monoxide detector in your home, especially near heating sources. Change the batteries when you change your clocks from daylight savings to standard time.


2. Have a qualified technician check your heating systems, water heaters, and other gas, oil or coal-burning appliances every year.


3. Have your chimney and flue inspected and cleaned yearly.


4. Do not use gas-powered appliances such as ovens, ranges or clothes dryers to heat your home.


5. Do not use camp stoves, charcoal grills or hibachis inside your home, the basement, or in the garage.


6. Do not operate a generator inside your home or in the garage. Only operate a generator outdoors and away from doors, windows, or vents.


7. Do not run a vehicle inside your garage, even if the garage door is open.


8. If you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning, move to a fresh air location and call 911 immediately.


9. Check frequently on children and the elderly.


Follow these simple steps…learn the signs of carbon monoxide poisoning…ultimately it is your health…your life…live responsibly.

Pam Anderson has earned the credentials of Doctor of Naturopathic Ministry and has actively worked in the field of nursing as a Registered Nurse for 31 years. She is also an Ordained Minister. Pam sees her role as a teacher or consultant. She believes in the body's innate, God-given, natural ability to heal itself when given an appropriate internal and external environment. Her years of experience in the ministry, medicine, and natural health field enables her to counsel individuals, couples and/or families on the principles for life, health and wellness of body, mind (soul) and spirit as established in God's Word. Pam, along with her husband, Ron Anderson, operate several natural health clinics. They travel the country as motivational speakers sharing their knowledge of Biblical principles for life, health and wellness. They have been married for 37 years.


For more information on Pam, natural health alternatives, integrative medicine and/or to receive her free newsletter, please visit: www.newhorizonsnaturalhealthcarecenter.com <http://www.newhorizonsnaturalhealthcarecenter.com>.

0
Your rating: None