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Be aware

CO is a poisonous gas.

You cannot see, taste or smell carbon monoxide (CO), but it can be deadly when you breathe it in. CO blocks your body from taking in the oxygen it needs.

Fuels give off CO when burned.

CO is a gas found where carbon-based fuels are burned. Some carbon-based fuels are:

  • Charcoal.
  • Gasoline.
  • Kerosene.
  • Oil.
  • Natural Gas.
  • Propane.
  • Wood.
Carbon monoxide molecule
CO molecules surrounded by items that can produce CO, including a water heater, a furnace, a portable generator, and a truck.

Anything fuel-burning releases CO.

All fuel-burning appliances and equipment release CO including:

  • Vehicles.
  • Furnaces or boilers.
  • Water heaters.
  • Portable generators.
  • Boats.
  • Charcoal and gas grills.
  • Clothes dryers.
  • Fireplaces and wood-burning stoves.
  • Lawnmowers and lawn equipment.
  • Power washers.
  • Space heaters.

If the item doesn't use fuel, then it DOES NOT give off CO.

CO builds up in enclosed and partially enclosed spaces.

CO can collect and build up in poorly ventilated spaces, including:

  • Houses/buildings.
  • Garages.
  • Boat cabins.
  • Campers.
  • Carports.
  • Ice houses/shanties.
    • Sheds.
    • Tented areas/canopies.
    • Warehouses.
      Home with a generator close to the door of an open garage. A red exclamation point above the generator highlights the danger of CO poisoning.

      Stay prepared

      Know CO poisoning symptoms

      CO poisoning has flu-like symptoms, including:

      • Headache.
      • Dizziness.
      • Nausea.
      • Chest tightness.
        • Confusion.
        • Fatigue.
        • Vomiting.
        • Weakness.
          • Unconsciousness.
          • Coma.

            Remember: people who are sleeping or intoxicated might not notice CO poisoning symptoms before it's too late.

            Symptoms should not be ignored. You could DIE within minutes if you do nothing.

            Woman surrounded by CO molecules holding her head as if it hurts

            Get to fresh air

            If you suspect CO poisoning, have symptoms or if your CO detector goes off:

            1. Leave the enclosed or partially enclosed space and move to fresh air right away.
            2. Call 911.
            3. Stay away from the enclosed or partially enclosed space until the fire department tells you it is safe to return, even if you aren't experiencing any symptoms.
            Ambulance with flashing lights

            View this information in PDF format:

            Carbon Monoxide Facts