Do you have a carbon monoxide detector? If so, when was the last time you checked it? Carbon monoxide detectors have a lifespan of up to seven years and because of legislation requiring them back in 2011, many expire this year.

Carbon monoxide, also known as CO, is called the “Invisible Killer” because it’s a colorless, odorless, poisonous gas. More than 150 people in the Unites States die every year from accidental non fire-related CO poisoning associated with consumer products, including generators. Other products include faulty, improperly-used or incorrectly-vented fuel-burning appliances such as furnaces, stoves, water heaters and fireplaces. 

Because CO is odorless, colorless, and otherwise undetectable to the human senses, people may not know that they are being exposed. The initial symptoms of low to moderate CO poisoning are similar to the flu (but without the fever). They include: headache, fatigue, shortness of breath, nausea and dizziness. High level CO poisoning results in progressively more severe symptoms, including: mental confusion, vomiting, loss of muscular coordination, loss of consciousness and ultimately death.

Protect yourself and your family from the dangers of Carbon monoxide by:

• Installing and maintaining CO alarms inside your home to provide early warning of CO.
• Installing CO alarms in a central location outside each separate sleeping area and on every level of your home.
• Using portable generators outdoors in well-ventilated areas away from all doors, windows and vents.
• Making sure vents for the dryer, furnace, stove and fireplace are clear of debris.

Learn more about fire prevention from the U.S. Fire Administration at www.usfa.fema.gov.

Please join us in welcoming Sergeant John Maxwell as the new lead of the City of Goleta Police Department’s Motor Traffic Unit! Safety is his top priority, and in this month’s Monarch Press, he would like to remind everyone about pedestrian safety.

Our roads can be crowded places. Cars, trucks, buses, motorcycles and bicycles all share the road to move throughout our busy days. As pedestrians, it can be dangerous to walk along and cross these busy streets. Here are a few safety tips:

• Always walk on the sidewalk. If there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic and as far to the side of the road as possible.
• Never assume a driver sees you and will stop. Before crossing the street, make eye contact with the driver and make sure they have stopped before stepping into the street.
• Obey traffic signals such as Walk/Don’t Walk signs, but don’t rely solely on these signals. Always look both ways before crossing the street.
• Don’t wear headphones or talk on your cell phone while crossing the street.
• When walking in parking lots, keep an ear out for engine noise or backup lights on cars. Drivers may not see you as they reverse out of parking spaces.
• When walking at night, be visible! Consider wearing reflective clothing, carrying a flashlight and crossing the street only in well-lit areas.

As both motorists and pedestrians, we can all work together to make our roads safer places for everyone. The Goleta Police Department Traffic Unit reminds everyone to drive and walk safely on our roadways. One mistake could change your life, and the lives of other motorists who share the roadways with you.