Carbon Monoxide
Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas produced by burning gasoline, wood, propane, charcoal or other fuel. Improperly ventilated appliances and engines, particularly in a tightly sealed or enclosed space, may allow carbon monoxide to accumulate to dangerous levels.
Carbon monoxide poisoning occurs when carbon monoxide builds up in your bloodstream. When too much carbon monoxide is in the air, your body replaces the oxygen in your red blood cells with carbon monoxide. This can lead to serious tissue damage, or even death.
If you think you, or someone you are with may have carbon monoxide poisoning, move the person to fresh air and seek emergency medical care. Call 9-1-1.
Symptoms
Signs and symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning may include:
- Dull headache
- Weakness
- Dizziness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Shortness of breath
- Confusion
- Blurred vision
- Loss of consciousness
Safety Tips
- Keep your fuel-burning appliances properly vented.
- Install carbon monoxide detectors.
- Make sure a professional inspects your appliances once a year.

Did you know?
As of January 1, 2007, homeowners and building owners are required to install carbon monoxide (CO) detectors within 15 feet of rooms used for sleeping. This law applies only to those occupancies that use fossil fuel, such as natural gas, propane, heating oil, to cook, heat, or produce hot water, or occupancies connected to an enclosed garage.
Carbon monoxide alarms are a simple tool to help detect dangerous levels of the deadly gas and can save lives from this "silent killer". If you do not have an alarm in your home, we strongly encourage you to install one immediately. It can save your life, and the lives of the ones you love.
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