RV FEATURE
CARBON MONOXIDE FACTS
Peter and Ann at ' the tip '.
WARNING
Eventually , their insurance company paid out , allowing the couple to purchase a 2011 100 Series Cruiser and a 2016 21ft caravan – with electronic stability control .
However , numerous items were not included on the insurance , including a $ 2000 surf ski , a $ 400 roof rack , and an $ 800 laptop computer .
Peter and Ann were also wise to make sure their replacement caravan had a carbon monoxide sensor fitted , just to be safe .
“ Never , ever use your caravan ’ s gas stove as a heater ,” he said . “ There are numerous options on the market , proper space heaters that are designed to safely heat your caravan . A gas stove , however , gives off carbon monoxide , and in a confined space , such as a caravan , prolonged exposure can be lethal .”
• Carbon monoxide ( CO ) is an odourless , colourless , tasteless gas that is slightly lighter than air . In sufficient concentration , it can kill within minutes .
• It is produced by the incomplete combustion of any fuel that contains carbon , including gas , natural gas , oil and coal and wood products .
• Because many of these fuel sources are only used in cold weather , CO poisoning is considered by some to be a ‘ seasonal ’ risk . However , it can build up in any enclosed or semi-enclosed space . Exposure can occur through inhalation of the gas , or by eye or skin contact when it is in its liquid form ( CO becomes a liquid under high pressure ).
• CO is a chemical asphyxiant . When inhaled , it bonds with the hemoglobin in the blood , which is responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body . The CO replaces the oxygen molecules in hemoglobin and deprives the heart , brain and body of oxygen . High concentrations can displace enough oxygen in your body to cause oxygen starvation .
• Symptoms of low-level carbon monoxide poisoning include headaches , nausea , weakness , dizziness and confusion . Exposure causes blood pressure to rise in an attempt to get more oxygen to the body . As a result , the skin might take on a reddish colour .
• As CO exposure increases , more serious symptoms develop , including a lack of coordination , chest pain , vomiting and loss of consciousness . If exposed to CO long enough , coma and death can occur .
• And so we repeat : never use your RV ’ s gas stove as a heater .
/ 17