Seasons are changing -- Understanding carbon monoxide Published Dec. 2, 2011 By Greg Chesser Fire Emergency Services Fire Prevention Chief F. E. WARREN AIR FORCE BASE, Wyo. -- Although the popularity of carbon monoxide alarms has grown in recent years and all base housing units have them installed, it cannot be assumed that everyone is familiar with the hazards of carbon monoxide poisoning in the home. Often called the "silent killer," carbon monoxide is an invisible, odorless, colorless gas created when fuels such as gasoline, wood, coal, natural gas, propane, oil and methane burn incompletely. In the home, heating and cooking equipment that burn fuel are potential sources of carbon monoxide. Vehicles or generators running in an attached garage can also produce dangerous levels of carbon monoxide. Facts and figures: · The dangers of carbon monoxide exposure depend on a number of variables, including the victim's health and activity level. Infants, pregnant women and people with physical conditions that limit their body's ability to use oxygen -- such as emphysema, asthma and heart disease -- can be more severely affected by lower concentrations of carbon monoxide than healthy adults would be. · A person can be poisoned by a small amount of carbon monoxide over a longer period of time or by a large amount of carbon monoxide over a shorter amount of time. · Carbon monoxide enters the body through breathing and the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning can be confused with flu symptoms, food poisoning and other illnesses. Some symptoms include shortness of breath, nausea, dizziness, light headedness or headaches. High levels of carbon monoxide can be fatal, causing death within minutes. Causes of carbon monoxide in the home: · Fuel-fired appliances: Gas fired furnaces, hot water heaters, fire places, gas fired appliances such as grills and heaters. · Vehicles: Running a vehicle in the garage. Even if the door is up, wind can force the vehicle exhaust which is primarily carbon monoxide until the engine reaches operating temperature back into the residence when the occupant re-enters the facility. · Any alarm from a carbon monoxide detector constitutes an emergency. Regardless of whether the detector is in full-alarm mode or if occupants are feeling any of the ill effects listed above, 911 should be called immediately and occupants should evacuate to fresh air.