Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas produced when fuels such as gasoline, fuel oil, propane, kerosene, natural gas, coal and wood do not have an adequate oxygen supply to properly burn. CO could be posing a deadly threat to you and your family.

Make the Right Call
If you suspect CO in your home, leave the building and call 9-1-1 immediately.

Preventing Exposure to Carbon Monoxide

• Install a UL-listed CO detector.
• Have regular maintenance and inspections performed on all fuel-burning household appliances and equipment.
• Never leave a vehicle running in a garage, and never bring a burning charcoal grill indoors.
• Keep your vehicle’s tail pipe clear of snow and other obstructions.
• Don’t use a gas oven to heat your home.
• If you use a gas range, make sure to operate a range hood that vents to the outdoors while the range is in use — particularly the oven.
• Don’t sleep in any room with an unvented gas or kerosene space heater.
• Don’t use gasoline-powered engines (lawn mowers, snow blowers, etc.) in enclosed spaces.
• Keep chimneys free of debris and keep fireplace flues clear and in proper working order.

Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

• Similar to the flu — nausea, vomiting and weakness.
• There is no fever.
• Symptoms tend to clear up when an exposed person moves to fresh air.
• At high levels and/or chronic exposure, CO can cause illness, disorientation and death.

About CO Detectors
CO detectors can serve as a second line of defense. These devices are similar to smoke detectors — they alert you to high levels of carbon monoxide. Look for AC-powered models with a digital read-out that meet the newest American Gas Association standards. Consider installing carbon monoxide detectors on each level of your home, especially near bedrooms, central furnaces and garage entrances.