If you have any questions or concerns about a poisoning, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Calls to The Poison Control Center at CHOP are always free, confidential, and staffed by pharmacist and nurse experts.

Quick take on carbon monoxide

Toxicity? Dangerous

Most common symptoms? Headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness

When to seek immediate help and call 911? Fainting, trouble breathing, or feeling ill despite fresh air

Has your Carbon Monoxide alarm gone off?

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a gas that is extremely dangerous. You may not notice it because you cannot see or smell it. CO comes from incomplete combustion and is released by:

• House fires
• Broken furnaces
• Broken water heaters
• Car exhaust
• Exhaust from power generators

When CO builds up in your home, the entire family may be in danger, especially infants, pets, and pregnant people. It is important to have CO alarms installed throughout your home. 

If the CO alarm goes off, leave the area, seek fresh air, and call the fire department immediately. The fire department can identify the source of the CO and notify you when it is safe to return indoors. 

What to expect from Carbon Monoxide exposure

• Headache, dizziness, and nausea – These are the most common symptoms and may go away with fresh air. If they do not, call 911.
• Trouble breathing – Chest pain or trouble taking a full breath can be a symptom of something more serious. Call 911 immediately.
• Fainting – Even briefly losing consciousness can be a symptom of something more serious. Call 911 immediately.
• If you are pregnant or have an infant — Even without any symptoms, you should still be seen by a doctor. Seek fresh air and immediately call the poison center.

Preventing carbon monoxide exposure and safety tips

• Install CO alarms in your home:
  • One for each floor
  • One near each sleeping area
  • Within 5-20 feet of fuel burning appliances
• Install CO alarms at the recommended height
• Test your CO alarms monthly
• Replace your CO alarm’s batteries every six months
• Run generators outdoors in well-ventilated areas away from home windows, doors, and vents
• Have a professional inspect home heating equipment yearly 
• Keep the car exhaust unblocked from snow
• Never leave the car engine running in a garage
• Never heat your home with a gas oven or charcoal grill
• Never use camping appliances indoors