At this time of the year, the number of carbon monoxide poisonings increases. Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless and poisonous gas. Because you can’t see, taste or smell the poisonous fumes, carbon monoxide can kill you before you recognize it.
To reduce the chance of carbon monoxide poisoning, follow these tips:
- Use gas appliances correctly.
- Open fireplace flues.
- Choose properly sized wood stoves that are EPA certified.
- Never idle a vehicle or run a generator in a building.
- Have your furnaces, flues and chimneys professionally inspected annually.
At first, carbon monoxide causes headache, dizziness, nausea and sleepiness. These vague symptoms will worsen as the person’s blood oxygen level drops.
If you suspect carbon monoxide is present, go outside or to a well-ventilated area with open windows. If symptoms get worse — for example, if anyone in the home begins to turn a dark cherry-red color or if someone in the home passes out — get everyone out quickly, and call 911.
For questions on this or other issues related to staying healthy in your home, contact Environmental Health at Dallas County Public Health at 515-993-3750. Further information is available on the Iowa Department of Public Health website.
Ann Cochran is the health navigation coordinator in the Dallas County Public Health Department.
