Published:
October 28, 2022
Each year, hundreds of people die accidentally from carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, particularly during the fall and winter months when temperatures drop and home heating systems are in heavy use. Infants, older adults, and people with anemia or heart or lung disease are particularly sensitive to high levels of this colorless, odorless gas, which can cause sudden illness and death. That's why it's so important to learn the symptoms of CO poisoning and how to protect yourself and your family.
What is CO?
CO is produced by the burning of fossil fuels—natural gas, gasoline, oil, kerosene, wood, or charcoal—and can build up in enclosed or partially enclosed spaces. If appliances like gas stoves, kerosene heaters, and furnaces are not working properly, are used incorrectly, or are not properly ventilated, dangerous levels of CO may result.
Carbon monoxide poisoning is caused by breathing high levels of CO. When this happens, your body does not get enough oxygen. You may become unconscious and your brain may be permanently damaged if you survive.
The Symptoms of CO Poisoning
Because the symptoms of CO poisoning are similar to the flu or a mild stomach bug or food poisoning, you may not realize CO is the cause. Beware if you experience symptoms only in your house, or others in your household have similar symptoms—especially if they started at about the same time:
- shortness of breath
- mild nausea
- headache
- dizziness
- confusion
- fainting
What To Do If You Have Symptoms of CO Poisoning
- Get fresh air right away. Open doors and windows, turn off appliances and heaters, and get everyone out of the building.
- Call 911 or have someone take you to an emergency room and tell them you suspect CO poisoning. CO poisoning can be diagnosed by a blood test or pulse oximetry test if it is done soon after exposure.
Safety Precautions to Prevent CO Poisoning
The good news is CO poisoning is entirely preventable. Follow these 9 tips:
- Place carbon monoxide detectors on each level of your home and in your bedrooms. Replace the batteries on a regular basis, perhaps when you change the time on your clocks in the spring and fall.
- Be vigilant of CO hazards from your neighbors if you live in an apartment or attached living space.
- Have fuel-burning appliances inspected by a trained professional at the beginning of every heating season. This includes: oil and gas furnaces, gas water heaters, gas ranges and ovens, gas dryers, gas or kerosene space heaters, fireplaces, and wood stoves.
- Make sure that flues and chimneys are connected, in good condition, and not blocked.
- Choose appliances that vent their fumes to the outside whenever possible, have them properly installed, and maintain them according to manufacturers' instructions.
- Don't keep a car running in a garage, even if the garage door to the outside is open. Fumes can build up very quickly and enter the living area of your home if the garage is attached. Also, be careful of keyless ignitions which don’t automatically shut off or can be accidentally turned on from inside.
- Don't use a gas oven to heat your home, even for a short time. Never use a charcoal grill indoors.
- Don't sleep in any room or space with an unvented gas or kerosene space heater.
- Don't use any gas-powered engines (mowers, weed trimmers, snow blowers, chain saws, small engines, or generators) in an enclosed space.
Protect yourself and others from potentially deadly CO poisoning. Take steps today to make sure your home is safe.