Reminder: check the batteries in your CO detector

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,  every year, at least 420 people die in the U.S. from accidental carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning and more than 100,000 people in the U.S. visit the emergency department each year due to accidental CO poisoning. 

While appearing on Sheridan Media’s Public Pulse program, Sheridan Fire and Rescue Chief Gary Harnish took the opportunity to remind the public to change the batteries in their smoke alarms and depending on their utilities, the batteries in their CO detector. 

The cost of CO detectors can range from $10 to $250, depending on features and battery life and are viable at most home improvement stores. 

The most common symptoms of CO poisoning are headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion. People who are sleeping or who have been drinking alcohol can die from CO poisoning before ever having symptoms, according to the CDC.

For more information on CO poisoning, click here.