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1. What is carbon monoxide?

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that displaces oxygen in the blood, causing the body to become oxygen-starved. It is a byproduct of incomplete combustion and is poisonous and explosive.

2. What are common sources of carbon monoxide (CO)?

Common sources of CO include gas, oil, kerosene, propane or wood-burning appliances, charcoal grills, vehicle exhaust, lawnmowers, pilot lights, tobacco smoke, some paint strippers, and other chemicals.

Appliance malfunction, improper use, or a tightly insulated home can lead to inadequate ventilation of CO gas. Be aware of appliances that activate their safety shut-offs, a furnace that runs constantly, or soot, lint, or moisture on the walls, appliances, or vents. These could be indications of a need for service and a possible CO exposure.

3. What are the symptoms of carbon monoxide (CO) exposure?

Symptoms of mild exposure to CO consist of nausea, vomiting, headaches, dizziness, blurred vision, and fatigue. Symptoms of a medium or high exposure can include confusion, drowsiness, fainting, convulsions, and difficulty breathing. Everyone is at risk for CO poisoning; however, expectant mothers and the unborn child, infants, children, senior citizens, and people with heart or lung problems are more vulnerable to the effects of CO.

Consider CO as a possibility if more than one member of your household experiences the same symptoms or the symptoms go away when you leave the home and return when you re-enter the home.

4. What do I do if I suspect an exposure to carbon monoxide (CO)?

If you suspect an exposure to CO and anyone in your home has symptoms of CO poisoning, leave the building immediately. When everyone is safely outside, call 9-1-1 for the Fire Department. Do not return to the building for any reason. When we arrive, we will provide medical assistance, if needed, and make every effort to help you determine the cause of the CO exposure.

If you suspect an exposure to CO but no one in your home has symptoms of an exposure, turn off all fuel-burning appliances and open the windows to air out your home. The New Berlin Fire Department recommends that you have any suspected source of the problem inspected by a professional before returning to the residence. If you must return to the residence, a properly operating CO detector should be installed immediately.

5. How can I prevent a carbon monoxide (CO) exposure?

There are many simple steps you can take to prevent an exposure to CO. These tips apply to your home, sheds, garages, tents, campers, RVs, and other enclosed areas.

• Fuel heaters and other small appliances in a well-ventilated area
• Have appliances, flues, and chimneys inspected by a qualified technician regularly
• Install and maintain CO detectors
• Never leave a car running in a garage or near a residence or other small space
• Periodically open windows to air out the area
• Provide routine maintenance of fuel-burning appliances
• Use appliances only for their intended purposes
• Use charcoal grills outdoors, in well-ventilated areas
• Use paint strippers and solvents outdoors, in well-ventilated areas