SEATTLE -- What Is Carbon Monoxide?

Carbon monoxide is a poisonous and odorless gas that cannot be seen or smelled and that can kill a person in minutes. Carbon monoxide is produced whenever any fuel such as gas, oil, kerosene, wood, or charcoal is burned. If appliances that burn fuel are maintained and used properly, the amount of carbon monoxide produced is usually not hazardous. Hundreds of people die accidentally every year from carbon monoxide poisoning caused by appliances that are not used properly or that are malfunctioning. Even more people die from carbon monoxide produced from idling cars. Carbon monoxide can build up so quickly that victims are overcome before they can get help.

Once inhaled, carbon monoxide:

Decreases the capacity of blood to carry oxygen;

Can cause permanent brain damage;

Can cause chest pains or heart attacks in people with heart disease.

What are the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning?

Headache

Dizziness

Fatigue

Weakness

Confusion

Nausea

How can I prevent carbon monoxide poisoning?

Never burn charcoal inside homes, tents, campers, vans, trucks, garages, or mobile homes. Do not burn charcoal in the fireplace in your home.

Never use gasoline powered equipment indoors. "Adequate ventilation" is required when using gasoline powered equipment. It can be difficult to determine how much ventilation is "adequate"; therefore, always use this kind of equipment outdoors!

Never use a gas oven to heat your home, even for a short time.

Never idle a car in a garage, even when the garage door is open.

Never sleep in a room while using an unvented gas or kerosene heater.

Make sure that chimneys and flues are in good condition and are not blocked.

Have oil and gas appliances and fireplaces as well as wood stoves checked every year by a trained professional.

Carbon monoxide warning devices may provide additional protection, but should not replace the other prevention steps.

What should be done if you suspect someone has been poisoned by carbon monoxide?

Move the person to a place with fresh air immediately.

Take the person to an emergency room and tell them that you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning.

Information courtesy of the Seattle & King County Public Health Department