How to Ensure your Safety against Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Hotels

Carbon monoxide or CO is commonly known as 'The Silent Killer'. Having no odor, color, or taste, it is a poisonous gas that is difficult to detect. According to the Centre for Disease and Control, it is a cause of death for approximately 500 people yearly, and hospitalization for 10,000 more, in the United States alone. Among the most worrisome contributors to health hazards related to CO are hotels and motels without CO detectors. To date, there is no law or mandate requiring that CO detectors be placed inside these establishments; consequently, a significant risk of CO poisoning exists for travelers. The need for carbon monoxide detectors has never been more apparent.

What is Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can block the absorption of oxygen in the bloodstream. It is produced by the incomplete combustion of fossil fuels, becoming significantly more lethal in non ventilated rooms, and in buildings where modern insulation limits air circulation. All appliances, heaters (including water heaters), and cars should be maintained regularly to prevent dangerous levels CO emissions.

Travel and Carbon Monoxide Safety

Prior to booking a hotel or motel, inquire as to whether or not high quality CO detectors are installed throughout the building. By law, hotels in the United States are required to install CO detectors if they have had a previous incident of CO poisoning; however, many claim to have them installed, but in order to save money, do not.

Popular Portable Carbon Monoxide Detectors

To ensure your safety, you can bring a portable carbon monoxide detector with you on your trips. The newest model is the Costar P-1, and after its 5 year testing off-market, it should be ready by January 2008 for consumer purchase. The device is small enough to be conveniently kept in your car, purse, pocket, and especially important, your hotel room. At an average price of $45.00 US, you are buying yourself peace of mind.

Currently, the most popular detector, according to about.com, is the First Alert Plug-in Carbon Monoxide Detector with digital display. This device comes with a remote control test/silence, and an AC battery backup. It samples the air once every second, and has an internal memory chip that stores the highest levels of carbon monoxide detected.

Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Symptoms of CO poisoning include headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, weakness, chest pains, and confusion. High levels of carbon monoxide can cause loss of consciousness and death. Because the symptoms mimic other common illnesses, it is often hard to determine if poisoning has occurred. If you think that you might be experiencing carbon monoxide poisoning, do not hesitate to get to the nearest hospital.

The importance of a carbon monoxide detector is immeasurable, as it is during sleep that most CO deaths occur because people do not experience any of the symptoms while asleep. Do not let your vacation become a tragedy; bring a portable CO detector.

About the Author:Lily Armstrong is the research consultant for A Guide to Carbon Monoxide Poisoning at www.carbon-monoxide-poisoning.com.