With our weather turning colder, now is the time to protect yourself and your family from exposure to potentially deadly carbon monoxide.
In Issaquah, accidental exposure to carbon monoxide — caused by a vehicle left running in the garage — sickened a family of six early Nov. 7, 2015. Fortunately, Eastside Fire & Rescue reached the family in time for medical treatment.
When fuels such as gasoline, natural gas and wood burn, carbon monoxide is created. The odorless, colorless gas limits blood's capacity to carry oxygen.
Initial symptoms of carbon monoxide exposure can include dizziness, severe headaches, nausea, sleepiness, fatigue and disorientation.
Keep your family safe all year by installing and maintaining carbon monoxide alarms in your home:
- Install carbon monoxide alarms in central locations, outside each sleeping area and on every level of your home.
- Follow all manufacturer's instructions for placement and installing the alarms.
- Test the alarms at least monthly; replace the units according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Replace your alarm's low batteries immediately.
If your carbon monoxide alarm sounds, immediately get fresh air — either by heading outside, or opening doors and windows. Make sure everyone inside your home is accounted for. Call 911 immediately and wait in a fresh air location until first responders arrive.
Take the following steps to limit your risk of carbon monoxide exposure:
- If you need to warm up your vehicle, remove it from your garage immediately after starting.
- Only use a generator in a well-ventilated, outdoor location away from doors, windows and vents.
- Only use charcoal or gas grills outside of your home.