Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odourless, colourless, tasteless and poisonous gas. CO poisoning occurs when CO is breathed in. CO builds up in the bloodstream and the body replaces the oxygen in the red blood cells with carbon monoxide. This prevents oxygen from reaching your tissues and organs and can be fatal.

CO is produced when burning fuels such as gas, propane or kerosene. This could be in vehicles, stoves, lanterns, grills, fireplaces, gas ranges, or furnaces. Excessive amounts of CO can build up when there isn’t proper ventilation or an adequate air supply.

Rosetown Fire Chief, Dennis Ogg, reported that while CO poisoning is rare in the summer months, there have been a couple instances of CO poisoning in the news in the last little while.

In Winnipeg, 46 people were recently rushed to hospital after being poisoned by CO at a hotel. The second instance was on July 9th, when two youth in the Prince Albert area tragically lost their lives due to CO poisoning.

In light of these recent events, Chief Ogg wishes to remind people that the very best preventative measure you can take, is to invest in CO detectors.

“You should have a detector on every level of your home. Put one in the hallway near each sleeping area in your house.” Chief Ogg also recommends, “Check the batteries on your detector at least twice a year and also check your fuel burning appliances.”

CO poisoning symptoms are mostly the same symptoms you’d see with a flu, but without the increase in body temperatures. Signs and symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning may include a dull headache or confusion, weakness or dizziness, nausea or vomiting and shortness of breath. Blurred vision and loss of consciousness can also occur.

Most at risk from exposure to carbon monoxide are infants and children, elderly people, pregnant women and people with heart or lung problems.

“If your alarm sounds, get out of the house immediately and call 911.” Advised Chief Ogg.