Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that is produced when fuel is burned without enough oxygen. Sources of carbon monoxide include cars or other vehicles with faulty exhaust systems, appliances that are not working properly, furnaces or gas dryers that are improperly installed or vented. Running a vehicle in a garage with the door closed will also produce high levels of carbon monoxide.


What does carbon monoxide do?
Carbon monoxide displaces oxygen in the blood so that important organs in the body like the heart, lungs and brain do not get enough oxygen to function properly. Symptoms such as nausea, fatigue and headaches are often early warning signs that someone has been exposed to carbon monoxide. If left untended, sever symptoms including loss of consciousness, seizures or death may result.



What should you do if you think you’ve been exposed to carbon monoxide?
If you feel better when you are out of your home, but the symptoms reappear when you return, you may have carbon monoxide poisoning, especially if other members of your family are experiencing the same thing. If this happens, turn off all gas appliances including the furnace, open the windows and leave the house. Call your local fire department and have them come to your house to test for carbon monoxide. If carbon monoxide is detected, the source must be repaired before it is safe to use. Anyone experiencing chest pain, shortness of breath or loss of consciousness, or anyone who is pregnant should seek medical attention immediately.

How can carbon monoxide poisoning be prevented?
• Have at least one carbon monoxide detector in your home. It is best
   installed near sleeping areas and close to the furnace area.
• Have your heating system, vents and chimney inspected annually.
• Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation and
   repair of appliances that burn fuel.
• Never burn charcoal inside a house or garage.
• Never use a gas oven to heat a house or apartment.
• Never use unvented fuel-burning appliances in a house or apartment.
• Never run a vehicle in a closed garage.
• Call the Poison Center with any questions you might have.