Carbon Monoxide (CO) Poisoning

 

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas produced from burning fuel. CO poisoning can be deadly and occurs when you accidentally breathe in the gas. Common CO-poisoning hazards include unvented heating appliances and fuel-burning equipment. CO reduces the oxygen level in your heart, brain, and body by replacing the oxygen in your bloodstream. People often do not realize they are being exposed.

A white smoke detector with circular design is mounted on a ceiling. It features a sensor and a red indicator light.

Signs of CO poisoning

  • CO alarm or detector going off
  • History of CO exposure
  • No fever associated with symptoms
  • Multiple people with similar symptoms in the same household, classroom, or workplace

Symptoms of CO poisoning

  • Confusion
  • Dizziness
  • Fatigue
  • Headache
  • Loss of muscle control or consciousness
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Shortness of breath

Sources of CO

  • A running car inside an enclosed space, such as a garage
  • Fuel-burning equipment used indoors (ex. charcoal or hibachi grills)
  • Malfunctioning or unvented fuel-burning appliances (ex. furnaces, heaters, ovens, stoves)

CO poisoning prevention

First-aid tips

  • Call 911 and seek medical help right away
  • Turn off all your appliances
  • Get everyone to exit the building
  • Get fresh air

Home & buildings safety tips

  • CO alarms need to be tested regularly. If the unit is battery operated, replace the battery at least once a year
  • Do not heat your home using appliances other than a heater
    • For example, do not use an oven or clothes dryer for heating purposes
  • Ensure appliance vents and chimneys are not blocked with tarps, debris, or snowfall
  • Ensure that gas appliances are maintained and properly installed
  • Install smoke alarms and CO detectors near each sleeping area
  • Exit a building immediately when smoke alarms or CO detectors go off
    • Do not re-enter the building until a professional declares it safe

Car safety tips

  • Do not let a car combustion engine run inside an enclosed space, such as a garage
    • Drive out promptly after starting a car inside an enclosed space
    • Turn the engine off as soon as you drive into an enclosed space

Equipment safety tips

  • Do not cover the bottom of natural gas or propane ovens with aluminum foil—doing so blocks the combustion air flow through the appliance and can result in carbon monoxide exposure
  • Do not operate portable generators near your home or outside of an open window
  • Do not use charcoal or hibachi grills indoors, as they are for outdoor use
  • Do not use portable fuel-burning camping equipment inside a home, garage, vehicle, or tent

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