Learning about Carbon Monoxide

Carbon Monoxide is a colorless, odorless, tasteless, highly toxic gas that is undetected to the human senses.  It is a by-product of combustion, present whenever fuel is burned from:

   Kerosene                                   Charcoal                                 Diesel fuel

Wood                                          Gasoline                                  Propane

   Coal                                             Oil                                             Methane

 Tobacco Smoke                       Natural or Liquefied petroleum (LP) gas

Because the gas is odorless, victims may become disoriented before realizing any danger, unable to call for help or exit the premises.  CO displaces oxygen in the blood, causing the brain, heart, and other tissues, muscles and organs to become oxygen starved, a condition called carboxyhemoglobin or COHb. 

Energy-efficient homes may be more susceptible to CO poisoning because they do not allow enough air in the home to dissipate normal CO output.

It is estimated that 300 deaths occur each year from CO poisoning and 10,000 people seek medical   attention due to CO inhalation.

 

OUTSIDE THE HOME

Cars, outdoor equipment, recreational vehicles

 

INSIDE THE HOME

Furnace, fireplace, wood stove, water heater, space or portable heaters, appliances

 

HOUSEHOLD GUIDELINES

Installation, maintenance, and operation of household devices to prevent formation of dangerous CO levels should include:

 

THINGS TO WATCH FOR:

 

SYMPTOMS

Symptoms can mimic a common cold, a hangover, food poisoning, depression or flu (without body ache or fever).  If the family's (or pet's) symptoms decrease when away from the house, seek medical treatment or get a Carboxyhemoglobin level blood test for CO poisoning.  CO poisoning is especially toxic to infant and children; mother and unborn child during pregnancy; the elderly; smokers; people with anemia, coronary, or respiratory problems; and people with immune system diseases.

 

CO DETECTORS

CO detectors sound an alarm when unacceptable levels of CO are in the air.  Without testing instruments, CO is virtually impossible to detect.

 

IF THE ALARM SOUNDS

 

WHO TO CALL FOR HELP

For symptoms of CO poisoning call 9-1-1, your local fire department, or the local gas company's emergency number.  Seek medical attention.  If alarm sounds and there are no symptoms, call a qualified appliance technician.  If a CO leak is suspected or you smell gas, call the local gas company immediately.  Professional can identify and eliminate the CO problem.

*Information provided by National Fire Safety Council, Inc.