A man installing a smoke and carbon monoxide detectorCarbon monoxide (CO) is an invisible, odorless, and tasteless gas that can cause serious illness or even death. Hundreds of people die from carbon monoxide each year, and thousands more end up in the emergency room. Knowing where carbon monoxide comes from and how to stay safe is essential to protecting yourself and your loved ones.

Hidden Sources of Carbon Monoxide

When fuels like gasoline and natural gas are incompletely burned, carbon monoxide can be produced in dangerous amounts. Common sources include:

  • Heating oil, natural gas, propane, kerosene, gasoline, and wood
  • Malfunctioning or improperly vented water heaters, furnaces, space heaters, fireplaces, and stoves
  • Running car engines in enclosed spaces
  • Burning charcoal, alcohol, or gasoline in tents, campers, or garages
  • Boats traveling at slow speeds while idling on the water

Recognizing the Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Low carbon monoxide levels can cause headaches (often described as feeling like a tight hat), drowsiness, nausea, and vomiting. More severe exposures can lead to carbon monoxide symptoms including disorientation, loss of consciousness, coma, seizures, respiratory failure, and cardiac arrest.

The Lifesaving Importance of Carbon Monoxide Detectors

The CDC strongly recommends installing battery-operated or battery-backup carbon monoxide alarms/detectors near every sleeping area in your home. Regularly check your detectors to ensure they're working correctly.
If your carbon monoxide detector is beeping, evacuate your home immediately with all family members and pets. Call 911 to report the alarm and mention if anyone is experiencing carbon monoxide poisoning symptoms. Stay out of your home until emergency responders have confirmed it is safe to return.

Stay Safe with the Iowa Poison Control Center

For more information on carbon monoxide safety and what to do in case of exposure, contact the Iowa Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222. Remember, when in doubt, call the Poison Center for expert advice 24/7. Don't let signs of carbon monoxide poisoning go undetected.