Carbon Monoxide
Facts
What Is It?
Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odourless, colorless gas that
interferes with the delivery of oxygen in the blood to the rest of
the body. It is produced by the incomplete combustion of
fuels.
What Are the Major Sources of CO?
Carbon monoxide is produced as a result of incomplete burning
of carbon-containing fuels including
coal, wood, charcoal, natural gas, and fuel oil. It can be emitted
by combustion sources such as unvented kerosene and gas space
heaters, boilers, woodstoves, gas stoves, fireplaces and water
heaters, vehicle exhaust from attached garages and tobacco
smoke. Problems can arise as a result of improper installation,
maintenance, or inadequate ventilation.
What Are the Health Effects?
Carbon monoxide interferes with the distribution of oxygen in
the blood to the rest of the body. Depending on the amount inhaled,
this gas can impede coordination, worsen cardiovascular conditions,
and produce fatigue, headache, weakness, confusion, disorientation,
nausea, and dizziness. Very high levels can cause death.
The symptoms are sometimes confused with the flu or food
poisoning. Foetuses, infants, elderly, and people with
heart and respiratory illnesses are particularly at high risk for
the adverse health effects of carbon monoxide.
An estimated 50 people die each year as a result of carbon
monoxide poisoning in the UK.
What Can Be Done to Prevent CO Poisoning?
- Ensure that appliances are properly adjusted and working to
manufacturers' instructions.
- Obtain annual inspections for heating system, chimneys, and
flues and have them cleaned by a qualified technician.
- Open flues when fireplaces are in use.
- Do not use ovens and gas ranges to heat your home.
- Do not burn charcoal inside a home, tent or camper
van.
- 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 boiler 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
(CO) poisoning, you should
- Get fresh air immediately. Open doors and windows. Turn
off appliances and leave the house.
- Seek medical attention and tell the doctor that you
suspect CO 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?
What About Carbon Monoxide Detectors?
Carbon monoxide (CO)
detectors can be used as a backup but not as a replacement
for proper use and maintenance of your fuel-burning
appliances.