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Carbon Monoxide is a colorless, odorless, tasteless, toxic gas that is produced whenever fuel such as wood, charcoal, gasoline, oil, kerosene, propane, or natural gas is not burned properly. Possible sources of CO include:
 
·          unvented kerosene, propane, and gas space heaters
·          leaks in chimneys and furnaces
·          back drafts or spills from furnaces, gas water heaters, wood stoves, and fireplaces
·          gas ovens and ranges
·          car exhaust
 
CO is known as the silent killer. CO exposure is responsible for more deadly accidental poisonings in the United Sates than any other agents, with the highest numbers during the winter. To protect yourself and your family, it is recommended that you buy and install a CO detector that meets Underwriters Laboratories (UL) standard. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for installation, use and maintenance.
 
For more information about CO including what to do if you suspect a CO poisoning, see the Carbon Monoxide Fact Sheet.
           
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