Greetings!
With the temperatures dropping...beware of these cold weather hazards!
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Antifreeze.
We couldn't drive anywhere without it. But even small amounts are dangerous if your children, pets, or anyone else swallows it. Here's what you need to know.
Why would anyone swallow antifreeze? Children swallow ANYTHING they can reach, just because it's there. Pets lap it up because it's sweet. Adults have been poisoned because someone poured antifreeze into soft-drink containers. Antifreeze naturally has a sweet taste, so even adults can be fooled.
How does antifreeze harm you? Antifreeze is tricky. For several hours after someone swallows it, everything seems fine. But the body is busy breaking down the antifreeze (ethylene glycol) into a number of substances that affect your blood chemistry, nervous system, and kidneys. After a few hours, someone poisoned by antifreeze may seem drunk or groggy and complain of stomach distress. After a few more hours, the victim may go into a coma. The kidneys can be damaged and stop making urine. If the victim survives, there may be permanent damage to the kidneys and brain.
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Carbon Monoxide.
Seriously, you still don't have a carbon monoxide alarm in every sleeping area of your home? GET ONE! And keep fuel-burning appliances in good repair; don't use grills or gasoline-powered tools indoors, and don't run your car in an attached garage or place a generator close to your home.
Detect carbon monoxide leaks!
- Install a carbon monoxide alarm in the hallway near every sleeping area in the home. Follow installation instructions, but usually carbon monoxide alarms should be placed on the wall about five feet above the ground. A variety of alarms are available at hardware stores and home centers. Some fire departments offer free alarms for families who can't afford to purchase them.
- Check the battery at least twice a year, when you check your smoke alarm battery.
- If the alarm sounds, leave the home immediately and call your local fire department.
Suspect carbon monoxide poisoning when:
- Headaches, nausea, and/or flu-like symptoms clear up when you go outdoors.
- Several people develop symptoms of headache, nausea, and fatigue or drowsiness at the same time.(Children and pets are often affected first.)
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