Homes Plus
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HOMES PLUS How to recognize and prevent carbon monoxide poisoning WAUKESHA – Daylight saving time began earlier this month and if you haven't done so already, it's a good time to change the batteries on your carbon monoxide detector or purchase new one for your home. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 500 people die each year in the U.S. from unintentional, non-fire-related carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide is found in fumes produced by furnaces, vehicles, portable generators, stoves, lanterns, gas ranges or burning charcoal or wood. Carbon monoxide from these sources can build up in enclosed or partially enclosed spaces. People and animals in these spaces can be poisoned and can die from breathing fumes. When power outages occur during emergencies such as winter storms, the use of alternative sources of power for heating or cooking can cause carbon monoxide to build up in a home or garage and can poison the people and animals inside. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers these tips to prevent carbon monoxide exposure: ■ Have your heating system, water heater and any other gas, oil or coalburning appliances serviced by a qualified technician every year. ■ Install a battery-operated carbon monoxide detector in your home, and check or replace the battery when you change the time on your clocks each spring and fall. If the detector goes off, leave your home immediately and call 911. ■ Seek prompt medical attention if you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning and are feeling dizzy, light-headed, or nauseous. ■ Do not use a generator, charcoal grill, camp stove or other gasoline or charcoalburning device inside your home, basement or garage or near a window. ■ Do not run a car or truck inside a garage attached to your house, even if you leave the door open. ■ Avoid burning anything in a stove or fireplace that isn't vented. ■ Don't heat your house with a gas oven. CO poisoning is entirely preventable as long as homeowners act wisely and protect themselves and their families in the event of a power outage and learning the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning. U p g r a d e Yo u r S h o w e r Pro's Pick® Solar Salt water softener salt upgrades your water and your life. That's because soft water is easier on your skin, laundry and more. Call for convenient delivery or pickup today. Upgrade Your Water • Water Softeners • Iron Filters • Drinking Water Systems 262-547-3866 1344 White Rock Ave. Waukesha, WI 53186 www.softwaterinc.com 230290001 232293002 NOVEMBER 2013 5