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The Dangers of Carbon MonoxideAt Home

The Dangers of Carbon Monoxide

Hundreds of people die accidentally every year from CO poisoning

You can’t see or smell carbon monoxide, but at high levels it can kill a person in minutes. Carbon monoxide (CO) is produced whenever any fuel such as gas, oil, kerosene, wood, or charcoal is burned.

If appliances that burn fuel are maintained and used properly, the amount of CO produced is usually not hazardous. However, if appliances are not working properly or are used incorrectly, dangerous levels of CO can result. Hundreds of people die accidentally every year from CO poisoning caused by malfunctioning or improperly used fuel-burning appliances. Even more die from CO produced by idling cars. Fetuses, infants, elderly people, and people with anemia or with a history of heart or respiratory disease can be especially susceptible. Be safe. Practice the DO’s and DON’Ts of carbon monoxide.

Contact

KJ Feury, Prevention Works
KarenJean.Feury@atlantichealth.org

Additional Resources

The Dangers of Carbon Monoxide Click here for an instant fact sheet.