Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

We've all heard of carbon monoxide - it's the stuff that comes out of the tailpipe of your car right? It can come from other sources too. Unvented kerosene and gas space heaters can produce dangerous amounts of carbon monoxide as can gas hot water heaters, gas stoves, generators, and any gasoline powered equipment.

What people forget is that carbon monoxide is an odorless and colorless gas. The fact that it is odorless and colorless means that it often kill its victims before they are aware it is present. When exposed to carbon monoxide at non fatal levels you may experience headaches, dizziness, disorientation, nausea and fatigue. At higher concentrations carbon monoxide can cause angina, impaired vision, and effect brain function.

When I have seen carbon monoxide cases they generally resulted from poor ventilation combined with the lack of a carbon monoxide alarm. A carbon monoxide alarm is a minor expense that can save lives and should be in every home - it's just that very few people really know about the risks. For more information about carbon monoxide posioning, click here.