Carbon Monoxide
Carbon monoxide (CO)
A colorless, tasteless, and odorless gas which, at high levels, can cause serious illness and death. Every year, hundreds of people in the United States die from CO poisoning.
CO is generated from combustion appliances, meaning those that use gas, oil, kerosene, charcoal or wood to produce heat.. Higher levels of CO may occur from improperly maintained, installed or used fuel-burning appliances, backdrafting appliances or fireplaces, or idling cars in garages.
Signs of CO poisoning:
Headache
Nausea
Tiredness/fatigue
Dizziness
Extended exposure can cause brain damage and heart problems. High levels of exposure can cause loss of consciousness, coma and death.
The number of CO poisonings increase in the winter months when people may be using other sources of heat, such as fuel-burning stoves or heaters, and do not have fresh air coming into the home. They may also occur during power outages when using portable generators.
Generators should only be used outdoors and away from any window, door or vent leading into the home.
DON’T leave your car idling in the garage, even with the door open
DON’T use gas-powered equipment or grills indoors or any enclosed space
DON’T use your gas oven to heat your home
DO install a CO detector on each level of your home
DO have your furnace and other heating appliances checked annually