Carbon Monoxide (CO)

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that interferes with the delivery of oxygen throughout the body. Because it is impossible to see, taste, or smell the fumes, CO can kill you before you are aware it is in your home.

The symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are sometimes confused with the flu or food poisoning, which clear up after leaving the home. Common symptoms include headaches, dizziness, weakness, nausea, confusion, disorientation, fatigue in healthy people, episodes of increased chest pain in people with chronic heart disease.

Fetuses, infants, elderly people and people with anemia or with a history of heart or respiratory disease can be especially sensitive to carbon monoxide exposures.

Sources of CO include:

By-product of burning wood, charcoal, gas, or oil
Tobacco smoke
Gas appliances
Exhaust from cars, trucks, buses, motorcycles, boats, generators, and other gasoline powered equipment

Average levels in homes without gas stoves vary from 0.5 to 5 parts per million (ppm). Levels near properly adjusted gas stoves are often 5 to 15 ppm and those near poorly adjusted stoves may be 30 ppm or higher.

Steps to Reduce Exposure to Carbon Monoxide

It is most important to be sure combustion equipment is maintained and properly adjusted. Additional ventilation can be used as a temporary measure when high levels of carbon monoxide are expected for short periods of time.

Do not idle your car or lawnmower in the garage, even if the garage door is open.
Do not use charcoal grills, portable generators or kerosene heaters indoors, on balconies, near doors or next to vents or windows.
Install carbon monoxide alarms or detectors near sleeping areas in your home. Check the batteries when you change your clocks each spring and fall. Replace your detector following the manufacturer's instructions or every 5 years.
Recognize the symptoms of CO poisoning: headaches, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion.
Ensure that all fuel-burning indoor appliances are properly installed, used, adjusted, and maintained.
Use appliances that vent to the outside whenever possible. Install and use an exhaust fan vented to outdoors over gas stoves. Open flues when fireplaces are in use.