Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas produced from incomplete combustion. Appliances and other gas fired items in your home can produce fatal carbon monoxide in your home. Carbon monoxide can spill from vent connections in poorly maintained or blocked chimneys. It is produced by the incomplete burning of various fuels, including coal, wood, charcoal, propane, and natural gas.

According to the American Medical Association, 1,500 people die each year from accidental carbon monoxide exposure, and an additional 10,000 seek medical attention at a hospital or clinic.

Below are some health symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, get fresh air immediately. Call the Fire Department, open all windows and doors, and turn off appliances.

Dizziness
Fatigue
Headache
Nausea
Irregular breathing
Red Face

General Prevention Tips	Signs You May Have a Carbon Monoxide Problem in Your Home
Never burn charcoal indoors Never use portable heating or other fuel burning equipment indoors Never leave a car running in a garage Always call a professional to service fuel burning appliances Do not use gasoline powered tools and engines indoors	Rusting or water streaking on vent/chimney Loose or missing furnace panel Soot Loose or disconnected chimney connections Debris or soot falling from chimney Moisture inside of windows Internal appliance damage Any damage to chimneys Decreasing hot water supply Furnace will not heat the house

The National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) recommends that each home have a Carbon Monoxide detector near sleeping areas in your home. Detectors should be mounted according to manufacturer's recommendations/instructions. Battery-operated or battery-backup detectors are recommended. Detectors can be purchased at any local retailer.

Call the Fire Marshal’s Office at 455-6375 if you have any questions.