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24
Carbon Monoxide Safety Information
professionals and inspected after installation. Regularly examine
vents and chimneys for improper connections, visible rust, or
stains, and check for cracks in furnace heat exchangers. Verify
the color of flame on pilot lights and burners is blue. A yellow or
orange flame is a sign that the fuel is not burning completely.
Teach all household members what the alarm sounds like and
how to respond.
Symptoms of CO Poisoning
Initial carbon monoxide poisoning symptoms are similar to the flu
with no fever and can include dizziness, severe headaches,
nausea, vomiting and disorientation. Everyone is susceptible but
experts agree that unborn babies, pregnant women, senior
citizens and people with heart or respiratory problems are
especially vulnerable. If symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning
are experienced seek medical attention immediately.
CO poisoning can be determined by a carboxyhemoglobin test.
The following symptoms are related to CARBON MONOXIDE
POISONING and should be discussed with ALL members of the
household:
1. Mild Exposure: Slight headache, nausea,vomiting, fatigue
(often described as “Flu-like” symptoms).
2. Medium Exposure: Severe throbbing headache,
drowsiness, confusion, fast heart rate.
3. Extreme Exposure: Unconsciousness, convulsions,
cardiorespiratory failure, death.
The above levels of exposure relate to healthy adults. Levels
differ for those at high risk. Exposure to high levels of carbon
monoxide can be fatal or cause permanent damage and
disabilities. Many cases of reported carbon monoxide poisoning
indicate that while victims are aware they are not well, they
become so disoriented they are unable to save themselves by
either exiting the building, or calling for assistance. Also, young
children and household pets may be the first effected.
Familiarization with the effects of each level is important.
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