Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Carbon monoxide is a colorless and odorless gas that it is considered poisonous, with minimal exposure, and deadly when exposure occurs at high levels. Even at low levels carbon monoxide can cause neurological problems and poisoning can occur in as little as a few minutes. Carbon monoxide is typically produced when fuel is burned to power furnaces or hot water heaters. Fuel-burning appliances usually don't produce harmful amounts of carbon monoxide but they will if they are used incorrectly or not adequately maintained.

There are numerous symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning that households who have fuel-burning appliances should be aware of. Knowing the symptoms will allow for immediate actions to be taken which can also help prevent injury or death.

Slurred speech – similar to having drunk to much

Slightly to moderately incoherent – not making sense

Disoriented – like having a very high fever

Blue lips – similar to contact with cold water

Runny nose – like cold or flu symptoms

Watery eyes – like allergies or hay fever

Nausea

Headaches

Light-headedness

Although often undetected and confused with other illnesses, the presence of low levels of carbon monoxide will accumulate in the body over time and eventually cause serious health issues if not cared for. Symptoms should be checked by a doctor, especially in cases where more than one person in the home is showing them. High levels can cause death in short period of time. Fresh air can help the body purge the carbon monoxide but it can take days before it is completely out of the system.

Preventative safety measures

Homes that have fuel-burning appliances should be equipped with a carbon monoxide detector and alarm. Appliances will eventually break and a carbon monoxide detector is the perfect back-up system when this happens. Detectors should be placed on every floor of the home for optimal safety.

Here are some other safety measures you can take to make your home safer from carbon monoxide poisoning:

Fuel-burning appliances should be checked by a technician at the beginning of every heating season.

Chimneys and flues should be checked for obstructions.

Appliances should be installed and maintained as the instructions call for.

Don't let your car sit in the garage when running, even if the garage door is open.

Don't use a gas oven to heat your home, even if just for a short period of time.

More information on carbon monoxide detectors