The events of last week should remind us all to Be Alert and aware of your surroundings.  But, what about the silent unseen dangers.

While staying in a vacation rental recently I read about a family of four who tragically lost their lives to carbon monoxide poisoning in their rental home. I then noticed we had a gas heater which made me realize the potential dangers of this silent killer.

Carbon Monoxide has no odor, color or taste and can build up indoors without detection until ill, if you detect it at all. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that more than 400 Americans die annually from unintentional CO poisoning, with over 14,000 emergency visits each year.

I am not pointing fingers other than back at this guy as it is my responsibility to protect myself and my family’s well being. This is why I now carry a portable CO detector in my luggage. These detectors are small, inexpensive, and can provide peace of mind while in unfamiliar environments.

I urge everyone to take this simple step to protect yourself and the ones you care about. Stay Alert not only to what you can see but also to what you can’t.

Read more from the National Carbon Monoxide Awareness Association and the CDC