Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Winter months see a rise in carbon monoxide poisoning. This is typically when people begin using heating systems in their home and warming up their cars in the garage before leaving the house.

Make sure that you have a carbon monoxide detector in your home, especially near sleeping areas. Check it monthly and change the batteries when you change your clocks during the spring and fall. You should follow the manufacturer's guidelines for replacing detectors which usually means changing them out every five years.

Carbon monoxide is odorless and can be deadly. It is produced by vehicles, small engines such as back-up generators, grills, lanterns, gas stoves, and fireplaces. Symptoms can include:

• Headache
• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Mental confusion
• Vomiting
• Loss of coordination
• Loss of consciousness

If your alarm sounds, immediately evacuate the structure and dial 911 from a cell phone outside. Do not re-enter the building until the fire department has made sure it is safe to do so.