Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: What Increases Your Risk

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What Increases Your Risk

Most risk factors for carbon monoxide poisoning are ones that you can control and change. For example, to prevent the buildup of carbon monoxide in a home:

• Indoor heating systems and chimneys should be inspected yearly and repaired as needed.
• Have all internal appliances (such as stoves or furnaces) repaired right away if you suspect they may be malfunctioning.
• Have exhaust systems in your vehicle and home inspected and repaired on a regular basis.
• Do not leave vehicles running in an enclosed or semi-enclosed area, such as a garage.

You may also be exposed to carbon monoxide in situations that you cannot control, including:

• At your workplace, such as in warehouses where propane-powered forklifts are used, in steel foundries, or in pulp paper mills.
• During a fire (such as in a building, a boat, or a plane).

Your risk of being exposed to carbon monoxide is increased if you notice signs of faulty heating systems or appliances at your home or business. These signs may include:

• A missing or poorly fitted furnace panel.
• Loose bricks or a disconnected vent around the chimney.
• Soot, rust, or water streaks down a chimney, roof vent, furnace, or appliance.

Last updated:	March 18, 2008
Author:	Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS
Reviewed By:	Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine, R. Steven Tharratt, MD, MPVM, FACP, FCCP - Pulmonology, Critical Care, Medical Toxicology
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman, MATC