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What is Carbon Monoxide (CO)?
- CO is an odorless, colorless, tasteless, deadly gas.
- CO is made anytime fuel (oil, gas, wood) is burned.
- CO poisoning can occur from faulty furnace operation or blocked exhaust systems.
Possible sources include:
- furnaces
- charcoal or kerosene heaters
- coal, wood or gas stoves
- propane grills (do not use inside)
- running cars in attached garages
- tobacco smoke
- motorboats and houseboats
How do I prevent CO poisoning?
- Use a CO detector.
- Have your heating system serviced yearly.
- Do not use charcoal or gas grills in your home or in a tent.
- Do not use the oven to heat your home.
- Unplug portable heaters while sleeping.
- Avoid swimming near or under the back deck or swim platform of boats.
- If you think a faulty appliance may be letting out large amounts of CO, call your local fire department for assistance in testing the air for CO.
How do I know it’s CO poisoning?
- Symptoms of CO poisoning include headache, nausea and vomiting, weakness, fatigue, and confusion. Symptoms can mimic the flu.
- If several people in the household become ill at the same time, it may not be "just the flu."
What do I do if I suspect CO poisoning?
- Get to fresh air right away.
- Open wide all doors and windows.
- Call the Washington Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222 right away.
Where can I found out more about CO poisoning?
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