Carbon Monoxide Safety Information
CO Safety Tips
Every year have the heating system, vents, chimney and flue inspected and cleaned by a qualified technician. Always install appliances according to manufacturer’s instructions and adhere to local building codes. Most appliances should be installed by professionals and inspected after installation. Regularly examine vents and chimneys for improper connec- tions, visible rust, or stains, and check for cracks in furnace heat exchangers. Verify the color of flame on pilot lights and burners is blue. A yellow or orange flame is a sign that the fuel is not burning completely. Teach all household members what the alarm sounds like and how to respond.
Symptoms of CO Poisoning
Initial carbon monoxide poisoning symptoms are similar to the flu with no fever and can include dizziness, severe headaches, nausea, vomiting and disorientation. Everyone is susceptible but experts agree that unborn babies, pregnant women, senior citizens and people with heart or respiratory problems are especially vulnerable. If symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are experienced seek medical attention immediately. CO poisoning can be determined by a car- boxyhemoglobin test.
The following symptoms are related to CARBON MONOX- IDE POISONING and should be discussed with ALL members of the household:
1.Mild Exposure: Slight headache, nausea, vomiting, fatigue (often described as
2.Medium Exposure: Severe throbbing headache, drowsiness, confusion, fast heart rate
3.Extreme Exposure: Unconsciousness, convulsions, cardiorespiratory failure, death
The above levels of exposure relate to healthy adults. Levels differ for those at high risk. Exposure to high levels of car- bon monoxide can be fatal or cause permanent damage and disabilities. Many cases of reported carbon monoxide
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