Carbon monoxide (CO) is a dangerous, poisonous gas that is colorless, odorless and tasteless. While you may be aware that smoke inhalation from fires is a common cause of CO poisoning, cigarette smoke and vehicle exhaust are the most common sources of CO exposure. Almost every flammable material produces some degree of CO when consumed. When you burn fuels such as gas, wood, charcoal, kerosene, propane, heating oil, coal and even natural gas, be sure to maintain proper ventilation so the carbon monoxide does not accumulate indoors and create a risk of illness or death.
Your fuel-burning equipment and appliances, such as wood burning stoves or fireplace inserts, fireplaces, space heaters, gas and charcoal grills, furnaces, water heaters, boilers or ranges produce CO gas. When natural gas equipment is installed, operated and properly maintained, CO gas is kept to safe levels.
SMELL GAS. ACT FAST.
If you smell rotten eggs, leave the area and dial 911 to report an emergency or call DC Gas at 256-845-3731 to report a possible natural gas leak.
Easy Ways to Prevent CO Build-Up
To protect yourself and your family from CO build-up, follow these easy tips:
How do I know if CO is present?
There are some physical signs of CO in a building. These include one or more of the following: unusually high indoor humidity, stuffy or stale indoor air, water or soot collecting near vents or burners and/or heavy condensation on walls or windows.
You should also know the physical symptoms of exposure which vary depending on how much CO is in the bloodstream. Higher levels mean higher danger. Also, the severity of physical symptoms varies from person to person depending on age, general health, level of physical activity and the duration and concentration of exposure.