Carbon monoxide poisoning

Carbon monoxide poisoning

1. 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

2. Symptoms

   • Headache
   • Dizziness
   • Fatigue
   • Weakness
   • Confusion
   • Nausea

3. Prevention

   • 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.

4. 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.