Protecting Your Most Vulnerable Family Members

“While Carbon Monoxide poisoning poses a threat to everyone, infants, toddlers, children, and the elderly are particularly vulnerable.”

Carbon monoxide (CO) is an invisible, odorless, and deadly gas. Often called the “silent killer,” it’s a byproduct of incomplete combustion from fuel-burning appliances like furnaces, water heaters, fireplaces, and gas stoves. While Carbon Monoxide poisoning poses a threat to everyone, infants, toddlers, children, and the elderly are particularly vulnerable. At Freeze & Flare Heat & Air in McAlester, we’re committed to educating our community about this serious danger and providing solutions for a safer home environment.  

Infants and toddlers are at higher risk because their smaller bodies absorb CO more rapidly. Their developing organs are also more susceptible to damage from CO exposure. Symptoms in young children can be vague, often mimicking common illnesses like the flu. These symptoms include nausea, vomiting, headaches, dizziness, and fatigue, which can easily be misdiagnosed. In severe cases, CO poisoning can lead to seizures, loss of consciousness, and even death.  

Elderly individuals are also more vulnerable due to potential pre-existing respiratory or cardiovascular conditions. These conditions can exacerbate the effects of CO poisoning, making symptoms more severe and potentially leading to serious health complications. Older adults may also experience confusion or cognitive impairment as a result of CO exposure, making it difficult to recognize the danger.  

Children, especially during sleep, are also at increased risk. Because CO inhibits the blood’s ability to carry oxygen, rapidly developing bodies are severely impacted. The initial symptoms of CO poisoning can easily be mistaken for a virus or the flu. This misdiagnosis can lead to dangerous delays in seeking appropriate medical attention.  

Preventing CO poisoning is crucial. Regular maintenance of fuel-burning appliances by qualified professionals is essential. This includes annual inspections of furnaces, water heaters, and chimneys. Installing CO detectors on every level of your home, especially near sleeping areas, is also critical. Test these detectors monthly and replace batteries annually.

Get Your Home Tested Now!

At Freeze & Flare Heat & Air, we offer comprehensive CO testing and monitoring services to ensure your family’s safety.

• Our trained technicians can identify potential sources of CO leaks and recommend solutions to mitigate the risk.
• We can also install and maintain reliable CO detectors, giving you peace of mind knowing your loved ones are protected.
• Don’t wait for a tragedy to happen!

Contact Freeze & Flare Heat & Air today to schedule a safety inspection and protect your most vulnerable family members from the silent killer.

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