CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING

The killer that can't be seen, smelled, tasted, or heard!

Hundreds of people needlessly die each year from this killer.

Carbon Monoxide or "CO", is an odorless, colorless, tasteless, and toxic gas. Breathing too much "CO" deprives the body of oxygen and can cause physical impairment and/or death by asphyxiation.

Sources: Carbon monoxide is produced from the incomplete combustion of wood, fuel oil, propane, butane, gasoline, kerosene, or natural gas.

Symptoms of "CO" poisoning: A person exposed to carbon monoxide may exhibit flu-like symptoms: dizziness, nausea, tightness in the chest, headache, and/or fatigue. If "CO" poisoning is suspected, move the victim into fresh air if possible. Open doors and windows to improve ventilation. Call for medical assistance if the symptoms are severe or if they persist.

What can YOU do to prevent "CO" poisoning!

· Never burn a charcoal or wood grill indoors or in a garage.

· Never sit in a parked car with the engine running and the windows closed.

· Never operate a car in an enclosed area such as a garage.

· Never operate kerosene or propane heaters indoors without proper ventilation.

· Never use the gas range or oven for home heating.

· Never block or close a source of combustion air to a heat-producing appliance.

· Never close the damper of a fireplace unless the fire is completely out.

· Never operate a furnace without the fan compartment door in place.

· Never use heat-producing appliances that are not properly installed and maintained regularly. Follow manufacturer's recommendation for maintenance.

VEHICLE EXHAUST IS RESPONSIBLE FOR MORE THAN HALF OF THE UNINTENTIONAL "CO" DEATHS EACH YEAR.