Common Sources of Carbon Monoxide (CO) the colorless, odorless highly toxic gas.

5th July 2024 – In the USA, the main sources of carbon monoxide that are likely to cause poisoning incidents include:

1. Faulty or Improperly Ventilated Fuel-Burning Appliances

• Furnaces, Boilers, and Water Heaters: Malfunctioning or poorly maintained heating systems, especially gas-powered furnaces, are common sources of carbon monoxide.
  
• Gas Stoves and Ovens: Using gas stoves or ovens for heating or in poorly ventilated kitchens can lead to carbon monoxide buildup.
  
• Fireplaces and Wood Stoves: Inadequately vented fireplaces and wood stoves are also sources of carbon monoxide, especially if the chimney or flue is blocked.

2. Vehicles and Engines

• Running Vehicles in Enclosed Spaces: carbon monoxide can accumulate rapidly in enclosed spaces, like garages, if a car is left running.
• Small Gasoline-Powered Engines: Portable generators, lawn mowers, chainsaws, and other small gasoline-powered tools can produce high levels of carbon monoxide, particularly when used indoors or in poorly ventilated areas.

3. Portable Generators and Heaters

• Portable Generators: These are a major source of carbon monoxide, especially during power outages when they are used indoors or near open windows, doors, or vents.
  
• Kerosene Heaters: These heaters, when used in enclosed spaces without adequate ventilation, can cause CO poisoning.

4. Charcoal Grills and Camping Equipment

• Charcoal Grills: Using a charcoal grill indoors or in an enclosed space, such as a tent or garage, can lead to dangerous carbon monoxide levels.
  
• Camping Stoves and Lanterns: Fuel-burning camping equipment used inside tents or cabins can be hazardous.

5. Fires

• House Fires: CO is a significant component of smoke and can cause poisoning during or after a fire, even if the fire is extinguished.
  
• Vehicle Fires: Burning vehicles can release CO, posing a risk to those in or near the vehicle.

6. Blocked or Obstructed Ventilation Systems

• Blocked Chimneys or Flues: Debris, animals, or other blockages in chimneys or flues can prevent CO from properly venting, causing it to accumulate indoors.
  
• Clogged Exhaust Vents: Dryers, exhaust fans, and other ventilation systems that are clogged or obstructed can lead to CO buildup.

7. Idling Boats

• Boat Engines: Boats with gasoline engines, especially those that are idling, can produce CO that can accumulate in the cabin or other enclosed areas.

Prevention and Safety Measures

To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, it’s essential to maintain and regularly inspect all potential sources of carbon monoxide, fuel-burning appliances, ensure proper ventilation, never use generators or grills indoors, and install carbon monoxide detectors in homes and other buildings.

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Carbon Monoxide is a colorless, odorless toxic gas. In the United States alone, the CDC states that every year carbon monoxide poisoning not linked to fires leads to over 50,000 Americans going to the emergency room, with around 15,000 being hospitalized and as many as 500 deaths.

Generators, car engines, air conditioning systems, boilers, ovens and other equipment where combustion takes place can cause carbon monoxide exposure when used incorrectly and/or in the wrong environment, or if it is not properly maintained.

Please see our simple safety advice on how to protect yourself and your loved ones from the very real dangers of carbon monoxide.

Or, click here and complete our short contact form if you or someone you know has suffered carbon monoxide poisoning and need advice on whether you may have grounds to claim compensation from those responsible.