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1. What is carbon monoxide?

Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless and toxic gas and is dangerous because it is impossible to see, taste or smell the toxic fumes. At lower levels of exposure, CO causes mild effects that are often mistaken for the flu.

These symptoms include headaches, dizziness, disorientation, nausea and fatigue. The effects of CO exposure can vary greatly from person to person depending on age, overall health and the concentration and length of exposure.

2. Where does carbon monoxide come from?

CO gas can come from several sources including gas-fired appliances, charcoal  grills, wood-burning furnaces or fireplaces, and motor vehicles.

3. What is at risk?

Everyone is at risk for CO poisoning. Medical experts believe that unborn babies, infants, children, senior citizens and people with heart or lung problems are at even greater risk for CO poisoning.

4. What actions do I take if my carbon monoxide alarm goes off?

What you need to do if your carbon monoxide alarm goes off depends on whether anyone is feeling ill or not. If no one is feeling ill do the following:

1. Silence the alarm
2. Turn off all appliances and sources of combustion (i.e. furnace and fireplace)
3. Ventilate the house with fresh air by opening doors and windows
4. Call a qualified professional to investigate the source of the possible CO buildup

If illness is a factor:

1. Evacuate all occupants immediately.
2. Determine how many occupants are ill and determine their symptoms.
3. Dial 911 and when relaying information to the dispatcher, include the number of people feeling ill.
4. Do not re-enter the home without the approval of a fire department representative.
5. Call a qualified professional to repair the source of the CO