The following conditions can result in transient CO situations:
• Excessive spillage or reverse venting of fuel-burning appliances caused by outdoor ambient
conditions, such as, wind direction and/or velocity, including high gusts of wind, heavy air in
the vent pipes (Cold/humid air with extended periods between cycles).
• Negative pressure resulting from the use of exhaust fans.
• Simultaneous operation of several fuel-burning appliances competing for limited internal air.
• Vent pipe connections vibrating loose from clothes dryers, fires or water heaters.
• Obstructions in, or unconventional vent pipe designs which can amplify the above situations.
• Extended operation of unvented fuel-burning devices (range, oven, fireplaces, etc.).
• Certain household materials such as cleaning fluids, polishes, paints and cooking operations
may affect the reliability of the alarm.
• Vehicle idling in an open or closed garage, or near a home.
To be safe, know the possible sources of CO in your home. Keep fuel-burning appliances and their
chimneys and vents in good working condition. Learn the early symptoms of exposure, and if you
suspect CO poisoning, move outside to fresh air and get emergency help.
Your first line of defence is an annual inspection and regular aintenance of your appliance. Contact a
licensed contractor or call your local utility co pany for assistance.
SYMPTOMS OF CO POISONING
35 ppm The maximum allowable concentration for continuous exposure for
healthy adults in any 8 hour period.
200 ppm Slight headaches, fatigue, dizziness, nausea after 2-3 hours.
400 ppm Frontal headaches within 1-2 hours, life threatening after 3hours.
800 ppm Dizziness, nausea and convulsions within 45 minutes. Unconsciousness
within 2hours and death within 3hours.
1600 ppm Headache, dizziness and nausea within 20 minutes. Death within 1hour.
6400 ppm Headache, dizziness and nausea within 1-2 minutes.
Death in less than 20 minutes
* PPM = parts per illion
The following symptoms related to CO POISONING and are to be discussed with all members of
the household:
Mild Exposure: Slight headache, nausea, vomiting, fatigue (often described as “flu-like”
symptoms).
Medium Exposure: Severe throbbing headache, drowsiness, confusion, fast heart rate.
Extreme Exposure: Unconsciousness, convulsions, cardio respiratory failure, death.
Many cases of reported Carbon Monoxide Poisoning indicates that while victims are aware they
are not well, they become so disoriented they are unable to save themselves by either leaving the
building or calling for assistance. Young children and household pets are typically the first
affected.
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