As the weather starts to get colder, there are a whole new set of circumstances and potential hidden dangers which could send you or a loved one to the emergency room, according to. Dr. Leigh Vinocur, MD, an emergency physician and host of www.radiomd.com’s ”ER-101”.

“Once furnaces, space heaters, and fireplaces are in full use, it poses potential risks such as carbon monoxide poisoning and fires,” according to Dr. Vinocur, whose show helps people manage their health and wellness before an emergency occurs. The American College of Emergency Physicians is a resource for the show.

As a guest on ER-101, David W. Ross, DO, FACEP noted that during this time of year, his emergency room sees an increase in people with burns and carbon monoxide poisoning.

“Carbon monoxide is odorless and tasteless so it’s hard to detect. Often, a family or several co-workers exhibit flu symptoms such as headaches, nausea and fatigue, but these often are indications of carbon monoxide poisoning. Make sure you have a working carbon monoxide detector in your home or office,” suggested Dr. Ross, who has been an emergency physician in Colorado Springs, CO, with the Penrose/St. Francis Healthcare System since 1992.

Dr. Ross also warned that carbon monoxide poisoning can occur when cars are idling and the car’s tailpipe is clogged or not working properly. He advises that a window be opened to allow fumes to escape.

“The other problem we see are burns from candles and faulty space heaters. Replace smoke detector batteries every six months and have an escape plan in your home, especially if your family is sleeping on a second floor,” recommended Dr. Ross. Your local fire department can assist with home safety plans.

ER-101 can be heard on the http://radiomd.com, and this particular show is in the archive.

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– Submitted by David Brimm