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8. CO Health Effects
CO is a poisonous gas produced by the incomplete burning of
carbon based fuels. When inhaled it deprives the blood stream of
oxygen, suffocating its victim. CO can cause immediate health
problems, and even death, in high concentrations. Regular
exposure to low concentrations, such as at home or in the
workplace, can cause long-term health problems.
Any gas or propane based engine will produce CO, meaning
that boaters, truckers, and small aircraft pilots are at risk from CO
fumes as soon as they start their vehicle. By far the largest
group suffering from CO poisoning is homeowners, who can be in
danger from sources like gas-powered furnaces and water
heaters, portable generators, clogged fireplaces and chimneys,
cars running in an attached garage, and burning of fuels indoors
(such as a gas or charcoal grill). Travelers staying in hotels are in
danger from CO leaked into their room from nearby faulty heaters
and boilers. Campers, RV’ers, and trailer owners are at risk from
gas heaters or stoves left running, or exhaust from nearby
vehicles accumulating inside.
The beginning symptoms of CO poisoning are sometimes
compared to the symptoms of food poisoning. Depending on the
level of CO, and length of exposure, you may experience any one
or more of the following symptoms:
•
headache
•
dizziness
•
weakness and clumsiness
•
nausea and vomiting
•
quick irregular heartbeat, chest pain
•
hearing loss
•
blurry vision
•
disorientation, confusion, or seizures
