Carbon monoxide (CO) is a poison. You can’t see it, smell it, or taste it. It is an invisible gas. CO is a byproduct of burning organic fuels. Virtually every home has some risk of CO poisoning. Do you have household appliances and equipment fueled with gas, oils, coal, kerosene, or wood? If you have a furnace, a water heater, space heaters, an oven, a lawn mower, a fireplace, a car, or a charcoal grill you do. CO poisoning is caused by malfunctioning appliances or equipment, worn or faulty parts, or improper venting. Early symptoms often mimic the flu – headache, nausea, unclear thinking, shortness of breath, weakness, and loss of muscle control. Severe symptoms include convulsions, unconsciousness, and possible death.
Brochures and Tip Sheets
- First Aid for Poisoning
- Your Poison Center
- Carbon Monoxide Tip Sheet
- How Do I Choose a Carbon Monoxide Detector?
- Winter Poison Safety Tips