Town of Bethel Connecticut - Health Department

Bethel Health Department

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
THE QUIET KILLER

Carbon Monoxide (CO) is an invisible, colorless, odorless gas that can be fatal. That's why it is often referred to as "the Quiet Killer". The symptoms of CO poisoning mimic those of the flu, including headache, fatigue, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, or loss of consciousness. If several members of a household experience these symptoms when they are home, but feel better when they are away from home, there may be a carbon monoxide problem.

While there are a number of steps you can take to minimize the risk of Carbon Monoxide poisoning, the number one way to prevent CO poisoning is to install a CO detector in your home near bedrooms. If the alarm goes off, get out of the house immediately. Call 911 or the fire department from a cell phone or a neighbor's house. As with any detector frequent testing and changing the batteries twice a year is essential. Replace alarms every 5 years because of possible degrading of the sensors over time.

The documents linked below are an excellent source of information in terms of helping you recognize the symptoms of CO poisoning as well as providing specific steps you can take to minimize the risk.

		This two page Fact Sheet from the Connecticut Department of Public Health provides a concise summary of the things you need to know about Carbon Monoxide
		This public awareness site provides a comprehensive resource for those interested in a more in-depth understanding of the problems posed by Carbon Monoxide
		This U.S. Environmental Protection Agency website provides an EPA perspective on the issue of Carbon Monoxide poisoning.

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