Funviralpark We install carbon monoxide detectors in our homes to help us recognize odorless leaks from our furnaces, stoves, or generators. However, if you’re staying in a hotel, Airbnb, RV, tent, campervan, etc., you may not know that carbon monoxide detectors are generally lacking or working.
For this reason, it may be wise to carry your own carbon monoxide detector. It just plugs into an outlet (most also have battery backup) and offers a simple safety measure. There may also be a leak from the generator.
A single random carbon monoxide leak can cause an easily preventable tragedy. We explain the risks and possibilities so you can make an informed decision about whether or not you should travel with a carbon monoxide detector.
RELATED: BRR, it’s getting cold!Here are some risks to consider before connecting a space heater
Here at Parade.com, it’s all about sharing the products we love with our audience. We may earn a commission when you purchase items shown on this page, but unless otherwise stated, all The picks of are individually selected.
What is carbon monoxide?
Carbon monoxide is a colorless and odorless gas. It is basically invisible because it is invisible and odorless. It is made at home by burning gasoline or propane in a furnace or stove. Carbon monoxide can begin to build up in your home if your furnace or stove is not properly ventilated. For example, if an exhaust pipe becomes clogged with a bird’s nest, carbon monoxide cannot escape and begins to build up inside.
How does carbon monoxide poisoning occur?
When carbon monoxide builds up in your home and you breathe it in, it enters your bloodstream. This means that carbon monoxide is replacing oxygen in our blood. Its accumulation in the bloodstream causes poisoning.
Symptoms of carbon dioxide poisoning
The problem with carbon dioxide poisoning is that symptoms can be related to the flu and other illnesses, making the idea of poisoning difficult to detect.
- headache
- dizzy
- weakness
- vomiting
- confusion
When a person is asleep, carbon dioxide poisoning can kill them before they feel any symptoms.
RELATED: Food Poisoning Vs.Stomach Flu – What’s the Difference? Here’s Everything You Need to Know
What is the risk of a carbon monoxide leak while traveling?
According to the CDC, at least 430 people die each year in the United States from accidental CO poisoning, and about 50,000 emergency room visits are made each year. This total includes both home and hotel addictions.
Currently, according to the National Congress of States (NCSL), only 14 states require carbon monoxide detectors in hotels and motels.
Besides the stove used to heat the hotel rooms, there is also a boiler to heat the pool. Therefore, the risk of leaks is higher during winter travel, but they can occur at any time if a boiler or generator is in use.
Carbon monoxide risk while camping
According to the Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH), you need to protect yourself from the dangers of carbon monoxide, even when you’re out in the wild. Carbon monoxide is found in the fumes of generators, grills, camp stoves and lanterns. Other general camping equipment. “
MDCH warns:
- Do not ride in the bed of a covered pick-up truck.
- Do not sleep in tents or trailers with gas or kerosene burning space heaters (unless permanently installed and properly ventilated).
- Do not cook on gas grills, charcoal grills, or camp stoves in tents or trailers (even with windows open).
- Do not use the generator near your own campsite or someone else’s campsite
RELATED: Why should air conditioners go out the window when space heaters don’t?
Are carbon monoxide detectors expensive?
No. The average cost of a plug-in carbon monoxide detector is only $30. The life expectancy of the detector is 7 years, so $30 can go a lot. If the detector ends up saving lives, it’s priceless.
Here are some of the best carbon monoxide detectors available on the market today.
best portable carbon monoxide detector
Kidde Carbon Monoxide Detector, $32 at Amazon
A portable carbon monoxide detector that continues to operate on two AA batteries even during a power outage. Kidde Carbon Monoxide Detector, $32 at Amazon
Kidde Nighthawk Carbon Monoxide Detector, $27.50 at Amazon
9V battery backup for peace of mind even during power outages. Also, if the CO detection is normal, you will see a red dot in the bottom right corner and it will flash. Kidde Nighthawk Carbon Monoxide Detector, $27.50 at Amazon
First Alert CO615 Dual Power Plug-In Carbon Monoxide Detector, $38 at Amazon
With a 7-year warranty, you can use this detector worry-free while traveling. It also has a battery backup. First Alert CO615 Dual Power Plug-In Carbon Monoxide Detector, $38 at Amazon
Next article: As a caregiver influencer, here are my top findings on technology safety for seniors. All available now!
