Unlike fire or smoke hazards, when this deadly gas fills your home, you cannot see it or smell it. That's why it's called "The Invisible Killer". Carbon monoxide - or CO -- poisoning is often due to faulty, improperly-used or incorrectly-vented fuel-burning appliances such as furnaces, stoves, water heaters, and fireplaces. Indoor use of charcoal grills and portable generators are also commonly at fault. That's why it's so important to have a working CO alarm. CO poisoning can quickly incapacitate and kill victims. At first, it may feel like you have the flu. Early symptoms can include headache, fatigue, nausea, shortness of breath and dizziness.
At high levels of CO, symptoms can include mental confusion, loss of consciousness and ultimately...death. To help keep your family safe, follow these CPSC safety tips. Have all fuel-burning home heating systems inspected and serviced annually by trained service technicians. Install CO alarms with battery backup in hallways near each sleeping area. Test your CO alarms and replace the batteries every year. NEVER operate a portable gasoline-powered generator in or near an enclosed space such as a garage, shed or crawlspace, or in your home, even if you open doors and windows to provide ventilation.
Poisonous Carbon Monoxide from generators can kill you in minutes. Never use a charcoal grill in or near the house or garage. Never use a gas range or oven to heat your home. Don't let this poisonous gas catch your family off guard. For more information and tips on how to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, visit us at cpsc.gov. .
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