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This apparatus is not designed to protect individuals from the acute or chronic effects of
carbon monoxide exposure. It will not fully safeguard individuals at special risk or with
specific medical conditions. If in doubt, consult a medical practitioner.
Carbon Monoxide (CO) Information
Carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless, tasteless gas produced during inefficient or
incomplete burning of fuels such as wood, coal, oil, and gas. The most common sources
of CO are malfunctioning appliances used for heating and cooking, vehicles running in
an attached garage, blocked chimneys or flues, portable fuel burning heaters, fireplaces,
fuel-powered tools, and operating a grill in an enclosed space.
The human body is unable to sense carbon monoxide in any way but the gas replaces
oxygen in the blood when breathed in, preventing the proper supply of oxygen throughout
the body and brain. Depending on the concentration and exposure time, CO can kill in
minutes or cause permanent damage and disabilities.
Indications of carbon monoxide poisoning include symptoms similar to the flu, but with no
fever. Other symptoms include dizziness, fatigue, weakness, headache, nausea, vomiting,
sleepiness and confusion. Everyone is susceptible to the danger of CO, but experts agree
that unborn babies, small children, pregnant women, senior citizens and people with heart
or respiratory problems are at the highest risk of serious injury or even death.
