Carbon Monoxide

What is carbon monoxide?

Carbon monoxide is a deadly, colourless, odourless, invisible gas that is created from the incomplete burning of a fossil fuel. (wood, oil, natural gas etc) Sources found in the home include cooking and heating equipment as well as vehicles running in attached garages.

How will carbon monoxide hurt me?

Carbon monoxide replaces the oxygen in our bloodstream will eventually cause suffocation.

What are some symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning?

At lower levels of exposure carbon monoxide poisoning will cause minor effects often mistaken for the flu. These symptoms include headaches, dizziness, disorientation, nausea and fatigue. The effects of carbon monoxide exposure can vary greatly from person to person depending on age, overall health and the concentration and length of exposure.

Who is most susceptible to carbon monoxide poisoning?

Medical experts believe that unborn babies, infants, children, senior citizens and people with heart or lung problems are at even greater risk.

How can I protect myself from the danger of carbon monoxide poisoning?

Install a least one Underwriters Laboratories listed carbon monoxide alarm with an audible warning signal near the sleeping areas and outside individual bedrooms. Carbon monoxide alarms measure levels over time and are designed to sound and alarm before an average healthy adult would experience symptoms. It is possible that you may not be experiencing symptoms when you hear the alarm. This does not mean that carbon monoxide is not present.

Have a qualified technician check all fuel burning appliances, furnaces, venting and chimney systems at least once a year.

Never use a charcoal grill, hibachi or outdoor barbecue indoors or in the garage.

Never keep a car running in a garage even if the garage doors are open.