Carbon monoxide

CO poisoning is completely preventable. Protect yourself and your family by learning the symptoms of CO poisoning and how to prevent it.

When winter temperatures plummet and home heating systems run for hours, the risk of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning increases.

Each year, at least 420 people die in the US from accidental CO poisoning. More than 100,000 people in the US visit the emergency department each year due to accidental CO poisoning. There are steps you can take to help protect yourself and your home from CO poisoning.

CO is found in the fumes produced by furnaces, kerosene heaters, vehicles “heated” in garages, stoves, lanterns and gas stoves, portable generators, or by burning coal and wood. CO from these sources can accumulate in enclosed or partially enclosed spaces. People and animals in these spaces can be poisoned and die from breathing CO.

How to Recognize CO Poisoning

The most common symptoms of CO poisoning are headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion. People who are sleeping or who have been drinking alcohol can die from CO poisoning before they have symptoms.

CO Poisoning Prevention Tips

• Check or change the batteries in your CO detector every six months. If you don’t have a battery-powered or battery-backed CO detector, buy one soon.
• Have a qualified technician check your heating system, water heater, and any other appliances that burn gas, oil, or coal every year.
• Keep vents and flues free of debris. Debris can block vent lines.
• Never leave the engine running in a vehicle parked in an enclosed or partially enclosed space, such as a garage.
• Never run a motor vehicle, generator, pressure washer, or any gasoline engine within 20 feet of an open window, door, or vent where exhaust fumes can escape into an enclosed area.
• Never use a charcoal grill, hibachi, lantern, or portable camping stove inside a home, tent, or RV.
• Never run a generator, pressure washer, or any gasoline engine inside a basement, garage, or other enclosed structure, even if the doors or windows are open.
• If you suspect CO poisoning, call 911 or a health professional immediately.

CO poisoning is completely preventable. You can protect yourself and your family by learning the symptoms of CO poisoning and how to prevent it.

For more information, visit the Carbon monoxide poisoning website.