College Checklist for CO Safety

Going to college can be an exciting accomplishment and a chance for students to live on their own. Unfortunately, there are obstacles that can get in the way of living in dorms or apartments.

One of the main obstacles is the introduction of carbon monoxide in sleeping areas. Carbon monoxide, also known as the "Silent Killer", is a dangerous gas that is life threatening.

This blog will highlight the dangers of CO poisoning while also providing ways to keep students safe.

Carbon Monoxide (CO) is a deadly, colorless, odorless, and poisonous gas. Carbon monoxide is a gas produced by incomplete burning of fuels like natural gas, coal, wood, charcoal, and propane. Appliances with internal combustion engines like cars, lawn mowers, and power washers also produce CO.

Since Carbon Monoxide is odorless and colorless, it is hard to detect. However, symptoms can occur if exposed for too long. Initial symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include:

If the exposure continues, you can have more extreme symptoms like:

Carbon monoxide poisoning is serious and can ultimately lead to death. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms, contact emergency services or call 911.

There are multiple ways that students can stay safe from the threat of carbon monoxide in dorms and apartments. Follow the safety checklist below to stay ready for any potential threats.

1. Identify appliances that can leak CO
2. Install CO detectors (If not installed)
3. Test or check CO detectors
4. Use gas appliances as intended
5. Ensure enough space between fuel-burning appliances
6. Turn appliances off when not in use

During the colder months, students may get creative on staying warm. However, it is important to not use gas appliances incorrectly. If the appliances are improperly used, tiny amounts of carbon monoxide can leak and cause symptoms to arise.

Examples of improper use are:

To curb this, it is best to use gas appliances for their intended purpose. For example, use gas stoves and ovens to cook instead of heating the living space. It is also important to always monitor a fuel-burning space heater. This means at least one person will need to be awake to watch the heater while also keeping doors and windows open.

Fuel burning appliances and engines like water heaters, gas stoves, and gas space heaters should be properly ventilated. This is so carbon monoxide cannot build up in the area and infect others. By properly venting, the living space can be free from carbon monoxide and the threats that come with it.

Have a professional come install and repair any fuel burning appliances. Then make sure the professionals come and do a yearly maintenance check on the appliances.

Parents and students can ensure appliances have proper ventilation by:

• Opening windows and doors to have fresh air movement
• Keeping a clear path for vents to pull indoor air outdoors
• Cleaning vents often to avoid dust and debris buildup

Carbon Monoxide (CO) detectors and alarms are great for detecting carbon monoxide in a dorm or apartment. It is important to have them because they can alert when the presence of carbon monoxide is in the dorm or apartment.

Where to install carbon monoxide detectors?

CO detectors should be installed inside and outside of each sleeping area. By having the detectors installed here, they can wake someone out of their sleep. However, it is important to note that the location can vary depending on the manufacturer. Read the manual before installing a carbon monoxide detector to ensure you are placing them in the correct spot.

Make sure not to install the detectors near fuel-burning appliances. The appliances may release a small amount of CO which can activate the alarm.

Another Knox Safety product is the plug-in carbon monoxide detector. This detector can plug into the wall and monitor the living space. The benefit of choosing Knox Safety CO detectors is the battery backup they are equipped with. Having a battery backup is beneficial for not worrying about replacing the batteries.

Shop Knox Safety CO detectors today at HomElectrical!

When a carbon monoxide alarm goes off, it is important for students to not look for the source of Carbon monoxide. Instead, they should:

1. Immediately leave the premises and go outside to fresh air
2. Call the emergency services, fire department, or call 911
3. Wait for the emergency responders to come before returning

Once the issue has been resolved, you can return to your apartment. However, you may need to replace an appliance if it emits carbon monoxide.

Carbon monoxide is extremely dangerous and should be taken seriously. By adding detectors and taking preventative measures, students can have peace of mind when living in their dorm and apartment.