Preventing Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
When igniting a car's engine, it burns fuel, which in turn releases carbon monoxide (CO)—a colorless, odorless gas that can be lethal.
It may seem harmless to start a car in the garage for a quick warm-up, but this seemingly innocuous act can be deadly. In this post, we'll delve into the hazards of running a car in a closed garage, the role of carbon monoxide (CO), and the critical measures to prevent potential tragedy.
The invisible threat: Carbon monoxide
When igniting a car's engine, it burns fuel, which in turn releases carbon monoxide (CO)—a colorless, odorless gas that can be lethal. Although modern vehicles are designed to emit less CO, the danger is still prominent. This gas can accumulate quickly in an enclosed space, like a garage, creating a deadly environment.
No amount of time is safe
Research, such as that by T.H. Greiner, Ph.D., P.E, indicates that a car running in an enclosed 10,000 cubic foot space can elevate CO levels to fatal concentrations in just seven minutes. Most homeowners’ garages are smaller, hastening this process. Unintentional CO poisoning accounted for over 5,000 deaths in the U.S. from 1999 to 2010. It's a sobering statistic that underscores the gravity of the risk and prevalence of the issue.
How carbon monoxide can be fatal
CO poisoning occurs when there's a buildup of the gas in the bloodstream, reducing oxygen delivery to the body's organs and tissues. The first symptoms include dizziness and confusion, which can quickly progress to incapacitation and death. The insidious nature of CO means victims often don't realize they're in danger until it's too late.
Prevention tips
The most effective strategy is simple: never start a car in a closed garage. To mitigate risks, follow these steps:
Never leave children unattended with keys in the car. Children, out of innocence, might start the car, leading to dangerous outcomes.
Educate the whole family, especially children, about the dangers of carbon monoxide. Awareness can serve as a powerful tool for prevention.
Always open the garage door before starting the car. This action should become an inflexible part of the routine—door open first, then engine on. It's important to remain alert to distractions that may cause lingering in the garage with the car running. Checking emails or phones should wait until the vehicle is started with adequate ventilation. If your car won’t start and you find yourself stuck in the garage, consider emergency towing to safely remove the vehicle and prevent further complications.
Establishing safe habits is the key to avoiding the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning. Remember, it's not worth the risk—even for a minute. Always prioritize safety and spread the word about the potential dangers of running a car in an enclosed space. If a homeowner has any concerns or questions, don't hesitate to reach out to professionals or consult safety resources for more information.
Quality Overhead Door, Inc. is a full-service garage door installation and repair company for both residential and commercial customers in the GIlbert area 480-838-8850.
