Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless and tasteless gas that can cause sudden illness and death. CO is produced any time a fossil fuel is burned in a furnace, vehicle, generator, grill or elsewhere. CO from these sources can build up in enclosed or semi-enclosed paces and can poison the people and animals in them.

• Gasoline powered engines, such as cars and boats
• Gas stoves and ovens
• Charcoal grills
• Furnaces and water heaters
• Oil, gas or kerosene heaters
• Leaking chimneys or fireplaces

Carbon monoxide poisoning symptoms are similar to those of the flu. Symptoms include:

• Headaches
• Drowsiness
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Dizziness
• Weakness

People who are asleep or drunk can die from carbon monoxide poisoning before they have symptoms, which is why it is very important to have a CO detector in your home.

Take the following steps to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning in your home:

• Install a battery-operated or battery back-up CO detector in your home.
• Have your heating system, water heater and any other gas-burning appliances serviced by a professional each year.
• Never leave a vehicle running in a garage, even with the garage door open.
• Make sure your car's tailpipe is clear of snow and other obstructions.
• Do not run fuel-powered tools or other equipment inside the home or garage, even with the door open.
• Never burn a charcoal grill or portable gas camp stove indoors or in a garage.
• Make sure your gas appliances are vented properly.
• Never use a gas range or oven to heat your home.
• Have your chimney cleaned and inspected every year.

• Detectors should be installed in the hallway near the bedrooms in each separate sleeping area and on every level of the home.
• Keep and read the instructions included with your detector for the manufacturer's recommendation on battery replacement, alarms, cleaning of the detector, precautions and lifespan of the detector.
• Check or replace the battery when you change the time on your clocks each spring and fall.

• Get into fresh air immediately.
• Call the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.
• Go to the doctor right away if anyone has any symptoms of CO inhalation, is pregnant or has heart issues.
• If you suspect a faulty appliance is letting out large amounts of carbon monoxide, call your local fire department or gas company for assistance in testing the air for CO.
• Do not re-enter the building until the fire department or gas company says it is safe.