Genesee County Health Department

Better Life Through Better Health

During the winter months, I hear a lot about carbon monoxide poisoning. What should I know?

Carbon monoxide is an invisible, colorless, odorless and tasteless gas. It is produced from incomplete burning of fuel such as gas or propane. Automobile exhaust is the most common source of carbon monoxide. Faulty furnaces can leak carbon monoxide and make people sick, or cause death.

The common symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are a nagging mild to severe headache with an upset stomach. In severe cases, victims may pass out and die. It can be especially dangerous to babies and people who are anemic or have a heart condition.

Check the chimneys, flues and vents in furnaces, gas heaters and gas hot water heaters. Make sure they are clean, tight and in good repair. It is best to hire an expert to do this job.

Fireplace chimneys should be cleaned regularly and checked to make sure that the damper is working properly.

Make sure gas heaters are properly vented. If it is an unvented type, it should be equipped to shut off automatically if there is a problem.

Never use a gas barbecue grill indoors.

Do not run your car in a closed garage.

Purchase a carbon monoxide detector for your home. Detectors are available at most hardware stores for approximately $45-75.

For more information about carbon monoxide poisoning prevention, contact the Genesee County Health Department at (810) 257-3603.