Carbon Monoxide

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Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas that is very toxic.  It combines with the body's blood and prevents it from absorbing oxygen.  If inhaled for prolonged periods, carbon monoxide can cause serious illness or even death.

It can be produced when combustion of any fuel (heating oil, gasoline, diesel fuel, propane, kerosene, natural gas, coal or wood) takes place without sufficient oxygen.

Exposure to carbon monoxide causes symptoms that are sometimes  mistaken for those of a cold or flu - headaches, dizziness, fatigue and nausea.

Always operate all appliances as intended according to the manufacturers instructions.

Possible sources of carbon monoxide:

• A vehicle or gasoline engine running in an enclosed garage.
• Using charcoal or grilling in a confined space.
• Fuel burning appliances that are not operating properly.
• Fuel burning appliances that are not venting properly.

If you suspect you have a problem with carbon monoxide in your home:

• Get your family outside.
• Call your fuel supplier or qualified service technician to an emergency inspection.
• Do not return home until the source of the CO has been discovered and the problem has been corrected.