USING HEATING DEVICES IN ENCLOSED SPACES DURING WINTER MONTHS RAISES CO POISONING RISK

Each year in Wisconsin, unintentional carbon monoxide (CO) poisonings result in an average of around 500 emergency department visits, sometimes resulting in hospitalizations and even deaths. Carbon Monoxide gas can’t be seen or smelled, but it’s very dangerous for people and pets, even to the point of death. Symptoms of CO poisoning include shortness of breath, headache, nausea, dizziness, and even loss of consciousness.

CO poisoning is most likely to occur during colder months when heating systems are in use. These poisonings can happen in any enclosed space, so it’s important to be prepared. Many CO poisonings can be prevented by properly installed and well-maintained CO detectors. Wisconsin law requires all homes and lodging areas to have working CO detectors on all floors.