Carbon Monoxide: What you need to know

Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide, or “CO,” is an odorless, colorless, deadly gas.
It is found in fumes produced by cars or trucks, small engines, stoves, lanterns, grills, fireplaces, gas ranges, or furnaces.
CO can build up indoors and poison people and animals breathing it.
Symptoms of CO poisoning are similar to those of the flu: dizziness, nausea, headache, upset stomach, vomiting, chest pain and confusion.
Everyone is at risk for CO poisoning, especially infants, the elderly, and people with chronic heart and breathing conditions.
To prevent CO poisoning, never use a generator inside your home, basement, or garage.
Never use a gas range or oven for heating.
Never burn charcoal or use a portable gas camp stove indoors.
Have your chimney checked or cleaned every year.
Install CO detectors in your home.

References: Katelyn Cusmano, Backus Hospital, UCONN School of Medicine MD Candidate, and www.cdc.gov/carbon-monoxide/about.