Carbon monoxide (CO) is a gas you can’t see, smell, or taste. It is dangerous and can make you very sick—or even kill you—before you realize it’s in your home.
When you breathe in carbon monoxide, it stops your blood from carrying oxygen to your body. This can damage your organs and be life-threatening.
Anyone can get carbon monoxide poisoning, but some people are at higher risk, including:
- Babies and young children
- People with heart disease, anemia, or breathing problems
Carbon Monoxide Information
Symptoms may include dizziness, headache, nausea, confusion, or weakness.
If you feel any of these symptoms:
- Get fresh air right away. Staying inside could make you pass out or even die.
- Leave your home immediately and call 911. Tell them you might have carbon monoxide poisoning.
- If you don’t have a phone, ask a neighbor for help.
- See a doctor or go to the emergency room. Fast treatment is important. Let the doctor know you think carbon monoxide is the cause.
- Have a professional check your appliances before you use them again to make sure they are safe.
Stay safe! Install carbon monoxide detectors in your home and have your heating system checked regularly.
Carbon monoxide poisoning can be prevented! Keep your family safe by following these simple steps.
Take Action
- Install a carbon monoxide detector near sleeping areas. Test it regularly and replace the batteries as needed.
- If the alarm goes off, leave your home immediately and call 911.
- If you feel dizzy, lightheaded, or nauseous, seek medical help right away. These could be signs of CO poisoning.
Prevent Carbon Monoxide Build-Up
Do NOT use these items inside your home, basement, garage, near windows, or under a tent:
- Generators
- Charcoal grills
- Camp stoves
- Any gas or charcoal-burning devices
Do NOT use a gas stove or oven to heat your home.
Do NOT leave a car running in a garage, even if the door is open.
Check vents and chimneys to make sure they are tightly sealed and free of cracks or rust.
Common Sources of Carbon Monoxide in Your Home
Carbon monoxide can come from any fuel-burning appliance, vehicle, or tool. Examples include:
- Gas (propane) furnaces and heaters
- Gas water heaters
- Fireplaces and woodstoves
- Gas stoves and dryers
- Charcoal grills
- Lawnmowers, snow blowers, and yard equipment
- Cars and trucks
Carbon monoxide poisoning symptoms can feel like the flu, but without a fever.
Mild to Moderate Poisoning Symptoms:
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea
- Dizziness
Severe Poisoning Symptoms:
- Mental confusion
- Vomiting
- Loss of muscle control
- Passing out
- Death
The amount of carbon monoxide you breathe in affects how serious the poisoning is and how long recovery takes. If you or your family have any symptoms and suspect carbon monoxide exposure, leave your home immediately and get medical help.