Carbon monoxide (CO) is known as the “Silent Killer” in the U.S. because it is the leading cause of accidental poisoning deaths. What is most frightening about this murderous gas is the fact that it can lead to brain damage and death but it can’t be seen, tasted or smelled while it is harming you. The Centers for Disease Control report that around 500 people die each year. The best home security gadget for detecting this gas is a carbon monoxide sensor that sounds an alarm when it is present.

You will be surprised at the number of household appliances and other items you own or use that produce CO. Propane stoves and heaters, gas water heaters, charcoal grills, cigarette smoke, kerosene space heaters, solvents, spray paints, paint remover, degreasers and your car engine are just a few. Operating any of these in an enclosed space without sufficient ventilation will cause problems.

At first when you are being affected by CO you will not realize it and may attribute it to other causes. It gives you the same symptoms as the flu – nausea, headaches and fatigue. Eventually it progresses to dizziness, shortness of breath and chest pain. When it gets really bad you will experience depression, confusion, impaired judgment, changes in your vision, hallucinations, vomiting, abdominal pain, fainting, seizures, agitation, memory loss and trouble standing and walking.

If you suspect you have carbon monoxide poisoning you should head right to an emergency room. You will need to have a blood test to know for certain. It can affect your pets too. If CO poisoning is confirmed you will need medical attention – there are no home remedied that can resolve the symptoms. You need to be treated with pure oxygen. The hospital staff will monitor your blood for the level of CO it contains until it is reduced enough for you to be released. You may need to be treated with very high levels of oxygen inside a hyperbaric chamber.

Make sure you remove the source of the CO inside your home and get plenty of fresh air moving through your rooms. If you are unsure of the source contact your local fire department and request assistance. The best prevention is having your home security company install carbon monoxide sensors on every floor of your home, including the garage. If the alarm goes off, you and your family need to evacuate immediately.