It is important to note that sitting in a garage with a car running can be extremely dangerous due to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless and odorless gas that can cause severe harm or even death if inhaled in high concentrations.
In general, it is recommended that you should not sit in a garage with a car running for any length of time. Even with the garage door open, the concentration of carbon monoxide can quickly become dangerous.
The amount of time it takes for carbon monoxide to become lethal depends on a variety of factors, including the size of the garage, the ventilation, and the concentration of the gas. It can also vary depending on the individual’s age, health, and other factors.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that exposure to 1,200 parts per million (ppm) of carbon monoxide for more than three minutes can be dangerous and can cause severe health effects. Exposure to levels above 9,000 ppm for more than ten minutes can be fatal.
In a typical garage, the concentration of carbon monoxide can reach dangerous levels within minutes of starting the engine. This is because the garage is an enclosed space with limited ventilation, and the car’s engine produces a significant amount of carbon monoxide.
Even if the garage door is open, the concentration of carbon monoxide can still be dangerous, as the gas is heavier than air and can accumulate near the ground. In addition, wind conditions can change, and the direction of the wind can cause the gas to enter the house or other nearby buildings.
It is important to note that carbon monoxide poisoning can be difficult to detect, as the gas is odorless and colorless. The symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning can be similar to those of the flu, including headache, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. In severe cases, carbon monoxide poisoning can cause loss of consciousness and death.
If you suspect that you or someone else is experiencing carbon monoxide poisoning, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. The longer you are exposed to carbon monoxide, the more severe the effects can be, and the harder it can be to treat.
In conclusion, sitting in a garage with a car running is extremely dangerous and should be avoided at all costs. The concentration of carbon monoxide can reach dangerous levels within minutes, and exposure to the gas can cause severe health effects or even death. It is important to ensure that your garage is well-ventilated, and that you never leave your car running in an enclosed space. If you suspect that you or someone else is experiencing carbon monoxide poisoning, seek medical attention immediately.
