Episode #58: Carbon Monoxide 101: Testing & Prevention with Charon McNabb

Is a carbon monoxide alarm all you need to protect your family from CO leaks?

Charon McNabb, President of the National Carbon Monoxide Awareness Association (NCOAA), shares how this “silent killer” stole 11 years of her family’s health before she uncovered multiple low-level CO leaks in her home. She reveals why standard alarms aren’t enough, how a supplemental CO monitor can catch hidden dangers, and what you need to know about symptoms, appliances, vehicles, pets, and finding the right CO professional.

Don’t miss this eye-opening episode—it could be a lifesaver.

Episode Highlights:

• What is carbon monoxide (CO) and how does it get into our homes? (3:20)
•  Can CO start leaking before an appliance breaks down? (5:51)
• Charon shares her family’s experience with CO leaks. (6:47)
• How widespread is the problem of CO poisoning? (8:21)
• How were Charon’s children’s symptoms different than Charon’s symptoms as an adult? (12:36)
• What are the differences between acute and chronic CO exposure, and their different symptoms? (16:53)
• How does CO affect pets?  (19:50)
• Where else can CO poisoning occur besides the home? (22:12)
• How can you keep safe when it comes to CO from vehicles? (25:36)
• What are the differences between traditional CO alarms and monitors rated for low-level exposure? (27:36)
• How do you find a good brand of CO monitor, and where should they be placed? (31:29)
• Who should you hire to investigate a potential CO leak? (34:38)

Links Mentioned in Interview:

Start Here tab: https://changetheairfoundation.org/mold-water-damage/

CO and Pets: https://www.ncoaa.us/_files/ugd/025508_8afc1a62e35844c79cd0f9636af193a6.pdf

CO Safe Schools: https://www.cosafeschools.com

Find a certified CO professional: https://www.myhomecomfort.org/find-a-contractor/

Get in Touch with Our Guest:

National Carbon Monoxide Awareness Association (NCOAA) website:  https://www.ncoaa.us

Learn more about Change the Air Foundation:

https://www.changetheairfoundation.org

Sign up for our newsletter:

https://changetheairfoundation.org/stay-informed/

Disclaimer: Your Indoor Air Podcast, a Change the Air Foundation production, is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, healthcare or other professional services, such as giving healthcare advice. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user’s own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical care.  Users should not disregard or delay in seeking medical attention for any medical condition or concern they may have.