Indoor Air Quality - CARBON MONOXIDE
Carbon Monoxide
Carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless gas produced by the incomplete burning of any material containing carbon, such as propane, gasoline, oil, natural gas, coal or wood.
Possible sources of carbon monoxide in the home are:
- gas and oil furnaces and appliances that are not properly maintained or vented to the outside of the building;
- car engines in attached garages; and tobacco smoke.
The first symptom of carbon monoxide poisoning is usually a headache with throbbing temples. Other initial symptoms are tiredness and shortness of breath, tightness across the forehead, flushed skin and slightly impaired motor skills.
As the carbon monoxide level or exposure time increases, symptoms become more severe: irritability, chest pain, fatigue, diminished judgment, dizziness and dimness of vision. Still higher levels cause fainting upon exertion, marked confusion and collapse. If exposure continues, coma, convulsion and death from respiratory arrest can result.
KEEP CARBON MONOXIDE OUT OF YOUR HOME
Ensure all gas and oil-burning cooking and heating appliances are properly maintained and inspected annually by a qualified technician.
Purchase a carbon monoxide detector. Never use an un-vented combustion appliances or any appliance designed for outdoor use (such as a kerosene space heater, barbecue, propane stove, etc.) in your home. If you have a garage attached to your house, never use a remote starter when your car is inside it. Never start your car when the door between your garage and your home is open.
Check your fireplace to make sure the flues are open before lighting a fire. If the chimney doesn't draw, call a fireplace professional.
Never use barbecues indoors, in an attached garage or any other enclosed area.
Never run lawnmowers, snow blowers or gas trimmers inside an attached garage or enclosed area.
Avoid using kerosene heaters indoors or in a garage, unless it is meant to be used inside
For more information on carbon monoxide and preventing exposure, read Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation's fact sheet on carbon monoxide.
CARBON MONOXIDE.
The Links Below contain information about dealing with CARBON MONOXIDE.