Carbon monoxide poisoning

What Can Be Done to Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?

• Have your fuel-burning appliances -- including oil and gas furnaces, gas water heaters, gas ranges and ovens, gas dryers, gas or kerosene space heaters, fireplaces, and wood stoves -- inspected by a trained professional at the beginning of every heating season. Make certain that the flues and chimneys are connected, in good condition, and not blocked.
• Choose appliances that vent their fumes to the outside whenever possible, have them properly installed, and maintain them according to manufacturers’ instructions.
• Ensure that appliances are properly adjusted and working to manufacturers’ instructions and local building code
• Open flues when fireplaces are in use.
• Use proper fuel in kerosene space heaters.
• Do not use ovens and gas ranges to heat your home.
• Do not burn charcoal inside a home, cabin, recreational vehicle, or camper.
• Make sure stoves and heaters are vented to the outside and that exhaust systems do not leak.
• Do not use unvented gas or kerosene space heaters in enclosed spaces.
• Never leave a car or lawn mower engine running in a shed or garage, or in any enclosed space.
• Make sure your furnace has adequate intake of outside air.

What If I Have Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?

Don’t ignore symptoms, especially if more than one person is feeling them. If you think you are suffering from carbon monoxide poisoning, you should:

• Get fresh air immediately. Open doors and windows. Turn off combustion appliances and leave the house.
• Go to an emergency room. Be sure to tell the physician that you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Be prepared to answer the following questions:
  
  --Is anyone else in your household complaining of similar symptoms?
  --Did everyone’s symptoms appear about the same time?
  --Are you using any fuel-burning appliances in the home?
  --Has anyone inspected your appliances lately?
  --Are you certain they are working properly?
  

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