Carbon Monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that can cause severe illness or death. Carbon Monoxide is found in combustion fumes, such as those produced by cars and trucks, small gasoline engines, stoves, lanterns, burning charcoal and wood, and gas ranges and heating systems.
To prevent CO poisoning:
- Never use the following inside homes, garages and other closed spaces, or outside an open window: generators, charcoal grill, camp stove, vehicle or other gas engine.
- Never use gas ovens to heat your home, even for a short time.
- If you use a fireplace or wood stove, make sure that chimneys and flues are in good condition and are not blocked.
- Make certain smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are installed on every level of your home and outside every sleeping area. Test your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors monthly and change the batteries at least once a year.
If the CO detector sounds, turn off heating appliance and open windows to get fresh air. Call a qualified technician to fix the problem before restarting the appliance. Call 911 if you experience CO poisoning symptoms such as dizziness, vomiting, or headaches and move to fresh air immediately.
To learn more visit:
http://www.seattle.gov/fire/pubEd/brochures/carbon%20monoxide.pdf
http://www.kingcounty.gov/healthservices/health/preparedness/disaster/carbon-monoxide-english.aspx