At The Law Offices of Vincent J. Ciecka, P.C., our personal injury lawyers in Camden County believe that it’s vital for you to learn how to defend your family from carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. In fact, continue reading below to find out how you can help protect your family from CO poisoning and what to do if you’ve been exposed to a CO leak.
Why You Should Be Aware of Carbon Monoxide Leaks
Carbon monoxide is a hazardous gas, as it is odorless and invisible to the naked eye. This gas can quickly accumulate in your home, especially in the cold, winter months. In a recent study, researchers even found that Americans die more frequently from carbon monoxide poisoning in the cold months than during the warmer months of the year.
How to Keep Your Family Safe
Know the Common Symptoms. Most common symptoms include persistent, severe headaches and dizziness (usually affecting more than one person in an enclosed area) nausea, vomiting, and fatigue. If you or your family members begin to suffer from any of these symptoms, please seek medical attention immediately.
Have Carbon Monoxide Alarms in Your Home. Since CO is an odorless, invisible gas, the only way to detect a leak is to have alarms installed. This is a simple, yet relatively cheap way to help make sure you’re protecting your family from CO poisoning.
Get Your Appliances Serviced Regularly. Home appliances that burn natural gas, coal, oil, propane, charcoal, or wood can produce carbon monoxide. Make it a priority at least once a year to have these items inspected by a professional. A technician will be able to check and see if everything is working correctly, and that any malfunctions that could cause CO leaks are repaired.
Proper Ventilation is Key. It is critical that your rooms are adequately ventilated. Kitchens can be installed with extractor fans, for optimal safety. On top of having the proper vents, make sure none of them are blocked.
What to Do if You Or a Loved One Has Been Exposed to CO:
Exposure to carbon monoxide can result in serious, sometimes permanent side effects. If you’ve been a victim of carbon monoxide poisoning caused by the negligence of another individual, building owner, employer, or product manufacturer, the attorneys at The Law Offices of Vincent J. Ciecka, P.C. may be able to hold these parties legally responsible for damages and medical bills resulting from the exposure.
If you are experiencing unexplained symptoms you believe stem from carbon monoxide exposure, our personal injury lawyers in South Jersey would like to hear from you. Whether you were exposed to a CO leak at your place of work, home, or another location, our law firm has experience handling carbon monoxide poisoning cases and may be able to help you file a lawsuit to recover compensation.