Installation Guide

Carbon Monoxide Safety Information

professionals and inspected after installation. Regularly examine

vents and chimneys for improper connections, visible rust, or

stains, and check for cracks in furnace heat exchangers. Verify

the color of flame on pilot lights and burners is blue. A yellow or

orange flame is a sign that the fuel is not burning completely.

Teach all household members what the alarm sounds like and

how to respond.

Symptoms of CO Poisoning

Initial carbon monoxide poisoning symptoms are similar to the flu

with no fever and can include dizziness, severe headaches,

nausea, vomiting and disorientation. Everyone is susceptible but

experts agree that unborn babies, pregnant women, senior

citizens and people with heart or respiratory problems are

especially vulnerable. If symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning

are experienced seek medical attention immediately.

CO poisoning can be determined by a carboxyhemoglobin test.

The following symptoms are related to CARBON MONOXIDE

POISONING and should be discussed with ALL members of the

household:

1. Mild Exposure: Slight headache, nausea,vomiting, fatigue

(often described as “Flu-like” symptoms).

2. Medium Exposure: Severe throbbing headache,

drowsiness, confusion, fast heart rate.

3. Extreme Exposure: Unconsciousness, convulsions,

cardiorespiratory failure, death.

The above levels of exposure relate to healthy adults. Levels

differ for those at high risk. Exposure to high levels of carbon

monoxide can be fatal or cause permanent damage and

disabilities. 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. Also, young

children and household pets may be the first effected.

Familiarization with the effects of each level is important.

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