Carbon Monoxide Safety - Kidde KN-COSM-BCA User Manual

Carbon Monoxide Safety

General CO Information
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless, odorless, and
tasteless poison gas that can be fatal when inhaled.
CO inhibits the blood's capacity to carry oxygen.
Symptoms of CO Poisoning
The following symptoms are related to carbon
monoxide poisoning and should be discussed with
ALL members of the household:
1. Mild Exposure: Headaches, running nose, sore
eyes, often described as "flu"-like symptoms.
2. Medium Exposure: Dizziness, drowsiness,
vomiting.
3. Extreme Exposure: Unconsciousness, brain
damage, death.
The above levels of exposure relate to healthy adults.
Levels differ for those at high risk. Exposure to high
levels of carbon monoxide can be fatal or cause
permanent damage and disabilities. Many cases of
reported carbon monoxide poisoning indicate that while
victims are aware they are not well, they become so
disoriented they are unable to save themselves by either
exiting the building, or calling for assistance. Also, young
children and household pets may be the first effected.
Familiarization with the effects of each level is important.
Initial carbon monoxide poisoning symptoms are similar
to the flu with no fever and can include dizziness,
severe headaches, nausea, vomiting and disorientation.
Everyone is susceptible but experts agree that unborn
babies, pregnant women, senior citizens and people with
heart or respiratory problems are especially vulnerable. If
symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are experienced
seek medical attention immediately. CO poisoning can
be determined by a carboxyhemoglobin test.
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