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Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Poses Danger

1/20/2012 -  

Carbon monoxide poisoning poses danger

Power outages and falling temperatures may increase the danger of carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide is caused by burning almost anything inside your house. It is a colorless, odorless gas which can go undetected until it is too late. It is important to be aware of the risk of serious injury or possible death from carbon monoxide poisoning. If your home is without power, consider going to a family or friends house, the mall, movie theater, or a restaurant.

 To avoid potential carbon monoxide poisoning, follow these tips:

  • DO NOT burn charcoal inside homes, tents, campers, vans, trucks, garages, or mobile homes.
  • DO NOT burn charcoal in the fireplace in your home.
  • DO NOT use any gasoline-powered equipment indoors.
  • DO NOT use a gas oven to heat your home, even for a short time.
  • DO NOT idle a car in a garage, even when the garage door is open.
  • DO NOT sleep in a room while using an unvented kerosene heater.

Always DO these things:

  • Make sure that chimneys and flues are in good condition and are not blocked.
  • Have oil and gas appliances, fireplaces and wood stoves checked every year by a trained professional.
  • Every home should have a battery operated carbon monoxide alarm, but this should not replace the other prevention steps.

What should you do if you think someone has been poisoned by carbon monoxide?

  • Move the person to a place with fresh air immediately.
  • Call 911 if the person has lost consciousness (fainted or passed out).
  • If the person is still conscious, take them to the emergency room immediately

"Courtesy of Pierce County Emergency Management"