Also called: CO poisoning

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a gas that has no odour or color. CO is very dangerous. It can cause sudden illness and death. CO is found in combustion fumes, such as those made by cars and trucks, lanterns, stoves, gas ranges and heating systems. CO from these fumes can build up in places that don’t have a good flow of fresh air. People can be poisoned by breathing in CO. The most common symptoms of CO poisoning are:

• Confusion
• Dizziness
• Vomiting
• Nausea
• Weakness
• Chest pain
• Headache

It is typically difficult to tell if someone has CO poisoning, since the symptoms may be like those of other illnesses. People who are sleeping or intoxicated can die from CO poisoning before they have symptoms. A CO detector can warn you if you have high levels of CO in your home.