January is the deadliest month for carbon monoxide poisoning
Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning depend on the level of carbon monoxide and duration of
exposure. Mild symptoms sometimes are mistaken for flu.
High - level CO poisoning results in:
Low to moderate CO poisoning results in:
Headache
Mental confusion
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•
Fatigue
Vomiting
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Shortness of breath
Loss of muscular coordination
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Nausea
Loss of consciousness
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Dizziness
Death
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If you think you are experiencing any of the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, go outside and get fresh air immediately. Cal 911 from outside. You could lose consciousness and die if you stay in the home.
The CDC offers these Carbon Monoxide safety tips:
• Have your furnace, water heater and any other gas or coal - burning appliances serviced by a qualified technician every year • Do not use portable flameless chemical heaters indoors • Have your chimney checked and cleaned every year, and make sure your fireplace damper is open before lighting a fire and well after the fire is extinguished • Never use a gas oven for heating your home • Never use a generator inside your home, basement or garage or less than 20 feet from any window, door or vent; fatal levels of carbon monoxide can be produced in just minutes, even if doors and windows are open • Never run a car in a garage that is attached to a house, even with the garage door open
Page 6 | January 2021
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