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Danger sign with the words "Poison Gas"

What is Carbon Monoxide Poisoning? Symptoms to Watch For

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Danger sign with the words "Poison Gas"

Even though most cases of carbon monoxide poisoning occur during the winter, carbon monoxide poisoning can occur at any time of the year. A recent case from June 9, 2015 shows the deadliness of this silent killer.

Carbon monoxide, or CO, is a colorless, odorless gas. It is produced by burning fuel or from fuel-burning appliances. Carbon monoxide is found in fumes from the following:

  1. Improperly operating appliances such as portable generators, stoves, lanterns, and gas ranges.
  2. Burning charcoal or wood in a crawlspace or inside a home.
  3. Running a car, lawn mower, or generator in an attached garage or porch.

Carbon monoxide from these sources can lead to CO poisoning because it can build up to deadly levels in enclosed or partially enclosed spaces.

Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Weakness
  • Fatigue
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Chest pain
  • Shortness of breath
  • Confusion

People who are sleeping or who have been drinking alcohol can die from CO poisoning before ever having symptoms.

If you are experiencing symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, get fresh air immediately. Go outside the home and call for emergency personnel immediately. The fire department can determine when it is safe to return to the home.

Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Every carbon monoxide poisoning tragedy serves as another reminder of the necessity of carbon monoxide detectors. If you have a CO detector, make sure the batteries are replaced every 6 months and that the detector is in working order. If you don’t have a carbon monoxide detector, get one. Get a detector for every level of your home and install it outside bedrooms/sleeping areas. NEVER ignore a beeping alarm.

A working carbon monoxide detector can mean the difference between life and death. Don’t put your family at risk – contact us today for more information about CO detectors as part of a monitored security system. Know the symptoms of CO poisoning and check your CO detectors every 6 months.