Carbon Monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas. Because you can’t see, taste, or smell it, CO can kill you before you know it’s there. Recent studies conducted by Iowa State University indicate a cold car engine running in an attached garage for as little as 1-2 minutes can raise CO to dangerous levels in a home.

Causes of CO Poisoning

CO is a by-product of incomplete combustion of fossil fuels such as natural gas, oil, wood, or coal. Some common causes of carbon monoxide poisoning include:

• Blocked chimney flues
• Charcoal grills
• Fuel-burning cooking appliances
• Furnaces
• Malfunctioning appliances
• Motor vehicles
• Ovens
• Stoves
• Water heaters

Symptoms of CO Poisoning

Symptoms may include flu-like symptoms such as:

• Breathing difficulties
• Confusion
• Dizziness
• Fatigue and tiredness
• Headaches
• Nausea

Reducing Risks

The Morrisville Fire/Rescue Department recommends the following steps to reduce the chances of carbon monoxide poisoning:

• Purchase and install CO alarms in your home. Maintain according to the manufacturer’s directions
• If your home uses natural gas or propane as a fuel source, we also recommend installing a natural gas and/or propane detector on each level of your home. A CO detector does not indicate raw gas in the home. Maintain according to the manufacturer’s directions
• Place a CO alarm on each level of your home and in areas near appliances that are potential sources of CO
• Have a qualified professional check all fuel-burning appliances, furnaces, venting and chimney systems at least once a year (or as recommended by the manufacturer)
• Never leave a motor vehicle running in an attached garage or carport where CO can enter the home