Carbon Monoxide (CO)

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, tasteless and potentially dangerous gas. It is a by-product from the incomplete burning of carbon-containing fuels such as coal, gasoline, kerosene, natural gas, oil and wood. You can't see or smell it, but carbon monoxide can be as serious a threat in your home as it is in your automobile.

Every home should have carbon monoxide and smoke detectors installed at strategic locations to alert occupants of danger from either hazard. Properly installed carbon monoxide detectors can alert people by sounding a warning before carbon monoxide levels in the blood become dangerously high.

Each year, hundreds of people are killed and thousands injured as a result of exposure to carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide (CO) causes more accidental poisonings in America than any other chemical substance.

Carbon monoxide poisoning symptoms can include dizziness, nausea, headache, weakness, loss of muscle control, chest tightness, heart fluttering, sleepiness, redness of the skin, confusion, vomiting, and diarrhea. Carbon monoxide poisoning should be suspected if more than one member of the family is ill and if they feel better after being away from the home for a period of time.

People who suspect they have been exposed to carbon monoxide should immediately seek fresh air. If symptoms linger, they should see their doctor quickly.

To avoid problems, homeowners should make an annual inspection of all their fuel burning systems, gas appliances, and fireplaces for proper combustion and ventilation.

Chimney and flue pipes should be clear of cracks and ill-fitting seams. All gas flames, either of heating systems or kitchen ranges, should be blue in color. A yellow flame or a flame that is excessively high, noisy, and sputtering indicates improper combustion and possible unsafe levels of emissions.

Charcoal should never be used indoors, especially in a fireplace. Wood burning can also be hazardous if the fireplace flue is not clear, or if a wood-burning stove is not vented.

Gas ovens or ranges should never be used to heat a room. During the winter, many residents insulate windows and doors to prevent drafts. Prolonged use of a gas oven or portable heater in an insulated area will diminish the supply of oxygen and generate carbon monoxide that can reach dangerous levels.