Carbon Monoxide & its Dangers
You can't see it, smell it or taste it
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 and practice the Do's and Don'ts of CO Poisoning.
CO Poisoning Symptoms
Know the symptoms of CO poisoning. At moderate levels, you or your family can get severe headaches, become dizzy, mentally confused, nauseated, or faint. You can even die if these levels persist for a long time. Low levels can cause shortness of breath, mild nausea and mild headaches, and may have longer term effects on your health. Since many of these symptoms are similar to those of the flu, food poisoning, or other illnesses, you may not think that CO poisoning could be the cause.
If you experience symptoms that you think could be from CO poisoning:
Do's
  GET FRESH AIR IMMEDIATELY. Open doors and windows and turn off combustion appliances and LEAVE THE HOUSE!!!!
  CALL 911 or VISIT THE EMERGENCY ROOM IMMEDIATELY. Tell the first responders, Paramedic or Physician that you suspect CO poisoning. If CO poisoning has occurred it can be diagnosed by a blood test after exposure.
  Have your fuel burning appliances, including oil and gas furnaces, gas water heaters, gas logs, gas ranges and ovens, gas dryers or kerosene space heaters, fireplaces and wood stoves inspected by a trained professional at the beginning of every fall. Make certain that the flues and chimneys are connected, clean and in good condition and that they are not blocked.
  Choose appliances that vent their fumes to the outside whenever possible. Have them properly installed and maintain them according to manufacturer's instructions. Follow the manufacturer's instructions.

The Presque Isle Fire Department hopes that this guide is helpful in keeping you and your family safe. Keep in mind that this is just a guide, if you if have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us!