A man was found dead inside his East Haven home on Thursday due to what firefighters believe was carbon monoxide poisoning.
Joe Hilbert, Assistant Chief of Operations with the New Haven Fire Department, said carbon monoxide poisoning can happen in a matter of seconds.
He said they see an increase especially during the winter season when windows and doors are closed to keep in warm air, but leave no place for fumes to escape.
Hilbert recommends people routinely check their carbon monoxide detectors, change the batteries and place a detector on each floor of your home.
“If you’re running a fireplace or something like that all it takes is a wind gust or low humidity, that will push the CO right into your building so if you have it in your first floor, you can recognize it before it gets to your second floor,” said Hilbert.
NBC Connecticut has reported on the rising costs of home heating oil in our “Affording America” series.
Hilbert said people should be sure to check the labels on space heaters, and make sure they are safe for indoor use. Kerosene and propane heaters should never be used inside of the home, he added.
At Goody’s Hardware store in East Haven, carbon monoxide monitors range anywhere from $30 to $70 dollars, depending on the model.
Goody’s Hardware store owner David Katz, said it’s important to check which type of CO detector fits best in your home.
“If you don’t have an alarm system sometimes it’s better to get 2-in-1, change it once every so often and it’s simple that way,” said Katz.
Headaches, dizziness, nausea and shortness of breath are quick signs to keep in mind that may indicate CO exposure.
“Don’t ever second guess anything if you feel like it’s an emergency or someone feeling off, make sure you get out of the house, get out in fresh air and call 911,” said Hilbert.
