CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING A CONCERN
Friday, January 21st, 2011 -- 11:03 AM
With temperatures down to 25 degrees below zero in some parts of Wisconsin Friday morning, health officials are reminding everyone about the dangers of carbon monoxide.Dr. Henry Anderson is Chief Medical Officer in the state Health Department. CO is a colorless, odorless gas that can be emitted from poorly functioning or unvented furnaces or other gas powered home appliances. Anderson says "The easiest way to protect yourself and your family is with a carbon monoxide detector." And keep snow away from your gas furnace exhaust pipes on the outside of your home. Dr. Anderson also reminds you to not run your car in the attached garage.
Earlier this week several people in Janesville were found to have high levels of CO exposure due to a malfunctioning furnace. Officials are warning people to take precautions. Symptoms of CO poisoning are flu-like and include headache, fatigue, dizziness, shortness of breath, nausea and mental confusion. High levels of exposure could be deadly. On February 1, a new law takes effect requiring carbon monoxide alarms to be installed in all one- and two-family dwellings..
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