The following symptoms are related to CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING and should be discussed with ALL members of
the household:
- Mild exposure: Slight headache, nausea, vomiting, fatigue (often described as "Flu-like" symptoms).
- Medium Exposure: Severe throbbing headache, drowsiness, confusion, fast heart rate.
- Extreme Exposure: Unconsciousness, convulsions, cardio respiratory failure, and death.
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. Young
children and household pets may be the first affected.
Transient CO situations can occur:
1. Excessive spillage or reverse venting of fuel burning appliances caused by outdoor ambient conditions, such as:
a) Wind direction and/or velocity, including high gusts of wind. Heavy air in the vent pipes (cold/humid air with
extended periods between cycles).
b) Negative pressure differential resulting from the use of exhaust fans.
c) Simultaneous operation of several fuel-burning appliances competing for limited internal air.
d) Vent pipe connections vibrating loose from clothes dryers, furnaces, or water heaters.
e) Obstruction or unconventional vent pipe designs, which can amplify the above situations.
2. Extended operation of un-vented fuel burning devices (range, oven, fireplace, etc.).
3. Temperature inversions, which can trap, exhaust gasses near the ground.
4. Car idling in an open or closed attached garage, or near a home.
(UL 2034)
WARNING
17