Source: The Points Guy
Summary
Travelers often overlook the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, a silent and deadly threat. Chuck Heathco, founder of the John Wesley Heathco Legacy Foundation, highlights the dangers after his son’s death in a Mexican resort. Incidents in Costa Rica and Belize also show the risk persists. Experts recommend carrying a portable carbon monoxide detector. These devices are small, affordable, and can save lives. They are especially important in areas with weak or no regulations. Detectors should be tested and maintained regularly.
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The escape is carefully planned.
Carbon monoxide detectors are packed alongside luggage. Hotels in Mexico and Costa Rica lack safety standards. A family in Belize lost three members to faulty water heaters. Detectors are small, like smartphones, and easy to forget. They are needed in places with no legal requirements.
One sentence that reframes the trip: “The only thing more predictable than the destination is the risk of a silent killer.”
Author: Evan Null
Why you shouldn’t leave this off your packing list
Carbon monoxide is odorless and colorless, making it hard to detect. It can come from heaters, ovens, and fireplaces. Symptoms are often mistaken for the flu or food poisoning. Victims may not realize they are in danger until it’s too late. The gas can cause irreversible damage even if not fatal.
How to know if you need a carbon monoxide detector
Many countries have no laws requiring detectors in hotels or vacation homes. The U.S. Embassy in Costa Rica notes that most Latin American countries lack such regulations. Only 14 U.S. states have alarm mandates for hotels. Even if detectors are present, they may not work reliably. It’s best to ask the hotel or bring your own.
Using and maintaining your CO detector
Detectors should be placed in sleeping areas, away from vents and heat sources. They do not need to be near the floor. Regular testing and battery replacement are essential. Most detectors have alerts for when they need maintenance. They should be replaced every 5 to 10 years.
What to do in an emergency
If the alarm goes off, leave the building immediately. Notify hotel staff and call emergency services. Carbon monoxide can affect multiple rooms and guests. Symptoms include headache, dizziness, and confusion. Evacuate to fresh air. Symptoms usually subside quickly once outside.
The best carbon monoxide detectors for travel
Portable detectors are lightweight and easy to carry. Choose ones that meet UL standards for accuracy. Battery-operated or plug-in models with backup batteries are ideal. Options include a lightweight detector, a smart alarm with app alerts, and one designed for sensitive individuals and pets.
