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CARBON MONOXIDE Carbon monoxide is a tasteless, colorless, odorless gas that interferes with the delivery of oxygen throughout the body. Sources of carbon monoxide include:  unvented kerosene and gas space heatersleaking chimneys and furnacesback-drafting from furnacesgas water heaterswoodstoves and fireplacesgas stovesautomobile exhaust from cars in attached garages.Fetuses, infants, elderly people and people with anemia or with a history of heart or respiratory disease can be affected more quickly by carbon monoxide. At lower levels, carbon monoxide can cause flu-like symptoms: headaches, dizziness, weakness and fatigue. At higher levels, or with prolonged exposure, it can cause confusion, disorientation, impaired vision and coordination, brain damage, coma and death.  Ways to Reduce RiskKeep gas appliances properly adjusted.Consider purchasing a vented space heater when replacing an unvented one.Use proper fuel in kerosene space heaters.Above gas stoves, install and use an exhaust fan that is vented to outdoors.Be sure flues are open when fireplaces are in use.Choose properly sized woodstoves that are certified to meet EPA emission standards. Make certain that doors on all woodstoves fit tightly.Have a trained professional inspect, clean and tune-up your central heating system (furnaces, flues and chimneys) annually. Repair any leaks promptly.Do not idle car inside the garage.Are There Warning Devices Available?A variety of carbon monoxide detectors, both plug-in and battery-powered, are available at hardware, home and discount stores. Read packages carefully and compare features. Look for information stating that the detector is Underwriters Laboratories (UL) listed. Read the owner's manual completely and be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding installation. Minnesota law requires that all single family and multi-family dwellings install an approved carbon monoxide alarm within ten feet of each bedroom. The law was effective January 1, 2007 for all newly constructed homes and apartment buildings for which building permits were issued on or after that date; August 1, 2008 for all other single family homes, and August 1, 2009 for all other apartment buildings and multifamily homes. What to Do if the Carbon Monoxide Alarm SoundsIf the alarm sounds and anyone is feeling symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, your home may have a potentially dangerous level. Leave the house immediately. Call the fire department, local emergency medical services, poison center, or local utility company from a neighbor's home. If the alarm sounds and no one is feeling any symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, ventilate the home by opening windows and doors and turning on fans. Turn off any combustion appliances immediately. Then call an appliance repair technician to find the cause of the alarm. For more information about carbon monoxide and carbon monoxide detectors contact the Minnesota Safety Council.
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