Act now
Emergency: possible CO poisoning
Headache, dizziness, nausea, weakness or confusion can be CO poisoning, alarm or no alarm. Get outside to fresh air now and call 911.
Why this happens
CDC says the most common symptoms are headache, dizziness, weakness, upset stomach, vomiting, chest pain and confusion, and that they are often described as flu-like. NFPA says that if anyone has these symptoms you should go outside right away and call 911, and that several people in the same place with symptoms may be a sign of CO poisoning. CDC adds that people who are sleeping can die before they have symptoms, and CPSC says to know the symptoms and get to fresh air first, then call 911.
Do this now
- Get everyone out to fresh air now, pets included. Help anyone who is drowsy or confused.
- Call 911 from outside, even if the alarm is quiet or you do not have one.
- Stay outside until responders say the home is safe.
- EPA says to go to an emergency room and tell the doctor you suspect CO poisoning. A blood test soon after exposure can often diagnose it.
- Do not go back in to look for the cause or to turn anything off.
When to stop. Do not go back in for anything until responders say it is safe.
What to tell the HVAC technician
- Who has symptoms, what they are, and when they started.
- Whether symptoms fade when people leave the home and return when they come back, which EPA says doctors ask about.
- Whether an alarm sounded or showed a number on its display.
- Which fuel-burning appliances, vehicles, generators or grills were in use.
Build the full list: what to tell the HVAC technician.
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