Carbon monoxide (CO) is a odorless, colorless gas produced by burning fossil fuels (Fossil fuels shall include natural gas, coal, kerosene, oil, propane and wood etc.) Exposure to lower levels of CO over several hours can be just as dangerous as exposure to higher levels for a few minutes.

Who is at risk?

Those most at risk are:  

· Children

· Elderly

· People with lung or heart disease

· Pregnant woman

 

Signs and symptoms of CO poisoning include: 

· Headache

· Fatigue

· Sleepiness

· Weakness

· Nausea, Vomiting

· Dizziness, Confusion

· Trouble breathing.

 

If prolonged exposure continues, LOSS OF CONSCIOUSNESS, COMA and ultimately DEATH will occur.

What to do if your CO detector goes off.

· Ventilate the house and get out!

· As you leave, turn off fuel burning appliances if possible.

· Get fresh air.

· Call 911.

· Seek medical attention if you have signs & symptoms of CO poisoning.

· Don't go back into the building until cleared by the fire department.