They fell asleep serenely, unaware of the danger that they were invading their home. They would never have woke up. Carbon monoxide is a silent killeran invisible, odorless and tasteless gas that spreads without notice and can kill in a few minutes.
Every year in Italy they are recorded hundreds of intoxication cases and several deaths caused by this lethal gas. A simple detector from less than 50 euros It can make the difference between life and death.
Carbon monoxide is an underestimated danger
The carbon monoxide (CO) It is a toxic gas produced by the incomplete combustion of materials such as wood, coal, gas and pellets. Can accumulate in domestic environments without any visible signal and, once inhaled, prevents blood from transporting oxygenslowly suffocating those who are exposed to it.
Why is it so dangerous?
- AND imperceptible to our sensestherefore one does not notice his presence.
- It binds to hemoglobin 200 times more quickly than oxygenblocking transport to the vital organs.
- If inhaled in high concentrations, It can lead to death in a few minutes.
In recent years, with the growing use of Pellet stoves, fireplaces and domestic boilersthe risk of exposure to CO has increased. Even those who live in an apartment are not safebecause gas can spread from one home to another through ducts and walls.
When and how is carbon monoxide formed?
Carbon monoxide releases every time a fuel burns without adequate oxygenation. The most common situations are:
- Defective or maintenance -free boilers and stoves
- Fireplaces with insufficient shooting or obstructed flues
- Poor ventilation in closed environments
- Car engines or generators on in the garage or closed spaces
- Gas stove used to heat environments
A problem spread in Italy is the poor maintenance of the boilers, often left without controls for years. A poorly working system can start releasing CO without anyone noticing it, with potentially fatal consequences.
What are the symptoms of carbon monoxide intoxication?
The initial symptoms of a intoxication from CO they can be easily confused with an influence or simple tirednessbut the situation can quickly degenerate.
First signals not to be underestimated:
- Persistent headache
- Nausea and dizziness
- Mental confusion
- Feeling of weakness
If the exposure continues:
- Vomit
- Loss of consciousness
- Convulsions
- Respiratory arrest and death
The most vulnerable people are Children, elderly and petswhich can manifest the symptoms faster than adults.
A carbon monoxide detector can save you life
The only way to know If there is carbon monoxide in your home It is installing a certified detector. This device is able to constantly measure the concentration of co in the air and, in case of danger, emits a sound alarm To warn the inhabitants of the house before it is too late.
How does it work?
- Analyze the air in real time
- Also detects small quantities of co
- It triggers an alarm before the levels become dangerous
Where to install it?
- Near the boiler or stove
- In the bedroomto be notified even during the night
- Near the fireplace or gas kitchen
Some more advanced models also detect Fuel gas losseslike methane and LPGand provide even more complete protection for the home.
In France and the United Kingdom, CO detectors are mandatory in many homes. In Italy, currently, There is still no law that imposes their installation in private homesbut from 2024 it will be mandatory to install them in short rents.
A similar initiative could soon extend to all homes, but Why wait for a law when your safety is at stake?
The best -selling model and the characteristics to look for
On the market there are many models of CO detectors, but not everyone is reliable. It is essential to choose a device certified according to the EN 50291 legislationwhich guarantees the correct detection of the gas.
Here are some features to consider:
- Electrochemical sensors For a precise survey
- Sound alarm of at least 85 dB To be heard even during sleep
- Digital display To monitor CO levels in real time
- Long -lasting batterypreferably with a notice of exhaustion
A device with these specifications It can be found online for less than 50 euros And it is a minimum investment for protect your home and family.
