Every year nearly 500 people die and nearly 50,000 others are treated at hospital emergency rooms for carbon monoxide poisoning from gas ranges, vehicles, portable generators, camp stoves, lanterns or by burning charcoal and wood.
Carbon monoxide from these sources can build up in enclosed or even partially enclosed spaces, silently poisoning people and animals, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency warns.
The most common carbon monoxide poisoning symptoms are headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain and confusion. People who are sleeping or who have been drinking alcohol can die from carbon monoxide poisoning before ever having symptoms.
The EPA has issued several tips on how to prevent such poisoning.
Have a working smoke and carbon monoxide detector, or an all-in-one unit, in your indoor spaces, and put new batteries in them every six months.
Never leave a parked vehicle motor running in a garage or other enclosed space.
Never run a generator, pressure washer or other gasoline-powered engine in the basement, garage or other enclosed space, even if all doors or windows are open.
Keep all vents, chimneys and flues unobstructed and free of debris especially in high winds. Flying debris and blowing snow can block chimneys and flues, sending carbon monoxide streaming into the space.
Never use charcoal grills, hibachis, lanterns, generators or portable camping stoves inside a home, tent or camper.
If you suspect that someone is suffering from carbon monoxide poisoning, move them to fresh air right away and call a health care professional immediately.
More information is at the Centers for Disease Control and prevention website, www.cdc.gov/co/default.htm
