Carbon monoxide (CO) is a poisonous gas that is colorless, odorless, tasteless and non-irritating. When breathed into the body, CO combines with the blood and prevents it from absorbing oxygen. When this oxygen-deficient blood reaches the heart and brain, it can damage these organs and cause illness or death.

What are the signs of carbon monoxide exposure?

• Symptoms of mild exposure include: slight headache, vomiting, nausea, fatigue, blurred vision and flu-like symptoms that disappear when the person breathes fresh air.
• Symptoms of medium exposure include: drowsiness, confusion, severe headache and rapid heart rate.
• Symptoms of severe exposure include: convulsions, unconsciousness, cardiac/respiratory failure and even death.

What should I do if I suspect carbon monoxide is present?

• If you’re experiencing physical symptoms, get everyone - including pets - out of your home or building and call 911.
• If you’re not experiencing physical symptoms, open windows to ventilate the area, shut off the furnace and other fuel-burning appliances, and call CenterPoint Energy at 612-372-5050 for an emergency inspection. If carbon monoxide is discovered, don’t return to the home or building until the source has been found and the problem corrected.

If I smell natural gas, is that the same as carbon monoxide?

No. Carbon monoxide has no smell. When you smell natural gas, you’re smelling an odorant that is added for safety reasons. If you smell natural gas, leave your home immediately and call CenterPoint Energy at 612-372-5050 from another location.

How can I prevent carbon monoxide build up?

• CO alarms should be installed in a central location outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home and in other locations where required by applicable laws, codes or standards. For the best protection, interconnect all CO alarms throughout the home. When one sounds, they all sound.
• Never operate an automobile, lawnmower, any combustion engine or barbecue or similar equipment in an enclosed area, even with the door open.
• Never leave a fire smoldering in a fireplace.
• Have fuel-burning equipment checked regularly by a qualified technician. Most manufacturers recommend annual checkups.
• Make sure your fresh air intakes are not blocked or restricted.
• Be sure all fuel-burning appliances and equipment are properly vented to the outdoors.
• Keep vents and chimneys clear of debris or other blockages, especially during and after snowstorms.
• Don’t try to heat a room with a gas range, oven or clothes dryer.
• Visit the National Fire Protection Association for more safety tips.