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Carbon Monoxide (CO)

 

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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This site is designed to be informational and educational and is
not meant to replace the expert advice of a qualified poison
specialist or physician.  In the event of a poisoning emergency,
call
1-800-222-1222 immediately.
TTY relay: 7-1-1

(c) Washington Poison Center, 2010
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