Carbon monoxide poisoning is a serious problem that can result in fatal consequences. Therefore, carbon monoxide detectors should be in every household.

Carbon monoxide poisoning occurs when there is incomplete combustion of hydrocarbon fuels. Hydrocarbon fuels include kerosene, heating oil, propane and other fuels commonly used in home heating devices.

Burning fuel produces carbon dioxide and water when there is enough oxygen in the air for complete combustion. In an area with little or no ventilation, burning fuel uses up the oxygen, resulting in incomplete combustion and the production of carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide also is produced if the burner is dirty or the air and fuel mixing system is out of adjustment or malfunctioning. Carbon monoxide binds to hemoglobin in the blood preventing blood from carrying oxygen to all organs, including the brain.

Victims of carbon monoxide poisoning become confused and often don't realize what is happening before it is too late.

It's common for people to use supplemental heat during the winter, especially when fuel prices are high. Ventilate rooms or buildings heated by open flame space heaters and stoves. If no fresh air enters an area with a flame type heater, combustion eventually depletes the oxygen.

Furnaces also can be the cause of carbon monoxide poisoning. Defective parts and cracks in the heat exchanger allow combustion gases to enter ducts.

Some furnaces are made with a special vent that directs additional air into the furnace for combustion. Have a service technician or a fuel supplier check the furnace on a regular schedule. At a minimum, have the furnace checked once a year.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends a carbon monoxide detector on each floor of every residence. At a minimum, a single carbon monoxide detector should be placed on each sleeping floor with an additional carbon monoxide detector in the area of any major gas burning appliances, such as a furnace or water heater. Installation of carbon monoxide detectors in these areas ensures rapid detection of any potentially malfunctioning appliances, and the ability to hear the alarm from all sleeping areas. Carbon monoxide detectors should not be placed within five feet of gas fueled appliances, or near cooking or bathing areas. Consult the manufacturer's installation instructions for proper placement of a carbon monoxide detector within a given area.

Tips to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning:

• Make sure appliances are installed according to manufacturer's instructions and local building codes.

• Install a CO detector/alarm that meets the requirements of the current UL standard 2034 or the requirements of the IAS 6-96 standard.

• Never burn charcoal inside a home, garage, vehicle or tent.

• Never use portable fuel-burning camping equipment inside a home, garage, vehicle or tent.

• Never leave a car running in an attached garage, even with the garage door open.

• Never service fuel-burning appliances without proper knowledge, skills and tools. Always refer to the owner's manual when performing minor adjustments or servicing fuel-burning appliances.

• Never use gas appliances such as ranges, ovens or clothes dryers for heating your home.

• Never operate unvented fuel-burning appliances in any room with closed doors or windows or in any room where people are sleeping.

• Do not use gasoline-powered tools and engines indoors.

If an alarm does detect carbon monoxide, open windows and doors for circulation and exit the area immediately. Call the fire department for additional assistance. If anyone shows signs of confusion, difficulty breathing or altered mental status call the rescue squad.

Take time to prevent this problem in your home by installing a carbon monoxide detector and taking precautions around the home.

(This resource updated on August 20, 2006 and appeared in the Lincoln Journal Star Newspaper Sunday edition. For information on reproducing this article or using any photographs or graphics, read the Terms of Use statement)

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