Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Fact Sheet
What's the Problem?
Carbon monoxide, or CO, is an odorless, colorless gas that can cause
sudden illness and death. Carbon monoxide is found in combustion fumes,
such as those produced by cars and trucks, small gasoline engines,
stoves, lanterns, burning charcoal and wood, and gas ranges and heating
systems. Carbon monoxide from these sources can build up in enclosed or
semi-enclosed spaces. People and animals in these spaces can be poisoned
by breathing it.
The most common symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are headache,
dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion. High
levels of carbon monoxide ingestion can cause loss of consciousness and
death. Unless suspected, carbon monoxide poisoning can be difficult to
diagnose because the symptoms mimic other illnesses. People who are
sleeping or intoxicated can die from carbon monoxide poisoning before
ever experiencing symptoms.
Who's at Risk?
All people and animals are at risk for carbon monoxide poisoning.
Certain groups -- unborn babies, infants, and people with chronic heart
disease, anemia, or respiratory problems -- are more susceptible to its
effects. Each year, more than 500 Americans die from unintentional
carbon monoxide poisoning, and more than 2,000 commit suicide by
intentionally poisoning themselves.
Can It Be Prevented?
Yes, you can prevent carbon monoxide poisoning by taking simple
precautions to make sure that:
- all fuel-burning appliances are properly installed, maintained,
and operated;
- furnaces, water heaters, and gas dryers are inspected annually by
a qualified service technician;
- fireplace chimneys and flues are checked and cleaned every year;
- unvented fuel-burning space heaters are used only while someone is
awake to monitor them and doors or windows in the room are open to
provide fresh air;
- automobile exhaust systems are routinely inspected for defects;
and
- automobile tailpipes are routinely inspected for blockage by snow
during the winter months.
Remember:
- never use a gas range or oven to heat a home;
- never use a charcoal grill, hibachi, lantern, or portable camping
stove inside a home, tent, or camper;
- never run a generator, pressure washer, or any gasoline-powered
engine inside a basement, garage, or other enclosed structure, even if
the doors or windows are open, unless the equipment is professionally
installed and vented;
- never run a motor vehicle, generator, pressure washer, or any
gasoline-powered engine outside of an open window or door where
exhaust can vent into an enclosed area;
- never leave the motor running in a vehicle parked in an enclosed
or semi-enclosed space, such as a closed garage.
Knowledge is the key to preventing carbon monoxide poisoning. In most
cases of unintentional poisonings, victims did not realize that carbon
monoxide was being produced or building up in the air they were
breathing. Carbon monoxide can be easily and cheaply detected in the
home; several relatively inexpensive carbon monoxide alarms are
available. Consider placing a carbon monoxide alarm on each level of
your homes and in your bedrooms.
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