Carbon monoxide poisoning is likely to occur wherever there is fire or smoke, especially in enclosed places in poorly ventilated rooms that are heated by wood-burning stoves or kerosene-type space heaters in closed garages where gasoline engines are running in cars that have faulty exhaust systems
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Symptoms
Early signs of carbon monoxide poisoning include:
- headache
- dizziness
- distorted vision
- mild difficulty breathing
Signs of more severe poisoning are:
- intense headache
- nausea/vomiting
- reddening of the skin
- sleepiness
- poor coordination
- unusual behavior
- loss of consciousness
Carbon monoxide poisoning should be strongly suspected if several individuals in the same house develop these symptoms simultaneously.
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Treatment
- Move everyone to fresh air immediately.
- If someone is unconscious, begin rescue breaking or CPR if necessary.
- Whether there is one or many victims, seek medical evaluation as quickly as possible. If no one can drive or a victim is unconscious, call 911 for emergency treatment and transportation.
- After each person has received treatment, contact the local gas company or fire department so they can check for carbon monoxide in the home.
- The primary treatment for carbon monoxide poisoning is 100 percent oxygen given by mask for several hours.