Carbon Monoxide Safety
 

Is your family safe from carbon monoxide poisoning?

Carbon Monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, toxic gas that is produced when fuel burning appliances are not operating properly or do not have the proper amount of air for combustion.
 

Symptoms of CO poisoning

• Tired

• Headaches

• Nausea

• Dizziness

• Drowsiness

• Blurred Vision

**The initial symptoms of CO poisoning are similar to the flu (but without fever).  These symptoms typically affect every one in a a household where CO is present.   If you experience  any of these symptoms and if you feel better when you go outside your home and symptoms reappear once you're back inside, you may have CO poisoning.

Protecting yourself and your family

The danger of carbon monoxide poisoning can easily be avoided by taking these simple precautions:

• Your natural gas flame should be blue with a hint of yellow near the tip; a yellow flame indicates incomplete combustion and is potentially dangerous.
• Have your gas appliances installed and inspected by qualified industry professionals.
• Follow manufacturers instructions for the care and use of gas appliances and equipment.
• Never use your stove or oven for heating your home.
• Inspect and replace if necessary, all gas appliances, connectors, furnaces, vents, flues, chimneys, and gas lines to your home.
• Replace your furnace air filters monthly throughout the heating season.
• Never operate gasoline powered engines or charcoal grills in closed garages, basements, or buildings.  
• Ensure your fireplace damper is always open.

If carbon monoxide poisoning is suspected, get fresh air immediately, seek medical attention if necessary, and call the City of Mesa at (480) 644-4277 (GASS) or 911.   

Information from the Consumer Products Safety Commission

Frequently asked question about Carbon Monoxide

• In English
• En Español

Carbon monoxide detectors