News for Families & Consumers

Carbon monoxide (CO) is an invisible, odorless gas that can be fatal when inhaled. Effects of inhalation can range from fatigue, dizziness, headache, and nausea at lower concentrations; higher concentrations can be fatal.

You can protect yourself and your family by taking the following precautions.

1. Carbon monoxide can leak from faulty burning appliances, so make sure all fuel burning appliances are installed correctly and are operating properly. Use an exhaust fan vented to the outside while cooking with gas.

2. It is best to NOT use unvented combustion heaters inside any enclosed space. This includes kerosene heaters. If you have no other options, then open a window when using the heater and NEVER leave it on when you leave the house or while you are sleeping.

3. Do not burn coal inside of any enclosed space such as the home, fireplace, tent, vehicle or garage.

4. Maintain your home\’s heating systems by having the ductwork, chimney and flue checked to ensure proper operation. Open the flue when the fireplace is being used.

5. Install a carbon monoxide detector in your home. The best place to place it is near the bedrooms. Detectors alert by sounding an alarm be- fore dangerous levels of carbon monoxide are reached. The price for a carbon monoxide detector can be as low as $20.

6. Carbon monoxide can also enter a home from a car that is allowed to idle in an attached garage, even when the door is open. To prevent this, do not allow cars to idle in the garage. Instead, move the car to an open location. Also, do not allow the tailgate or rear window of a car to remain open while operating. Carbon monoxide may be pulled inside of the vehicle from the exhaust pipe.

If any of the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are experienced, turn off appliances and open doors and windows. Go outside to fresh air. Contact a professional to have the CO problem remedied. If the exposure is severe, call 911.