If this is suspected, open windows to aerate the area and leave immediately. Call the Fire Department or Gas Company for assistance, from another location. It is a flammable gas that is somewhat lighter than air. Carbon monoxide is a waste product of incomplete combustion of coal, wood, charcoal, natural gas, fuel oil, kerosene, gasoline, fabrics and plastics. It is the leading cause of poisoning deaths in the United States.
Carbon monoxide interferes with the blood's ability to carry oxygen.
It combines with the hemoglobin of blood 250 times better than oxygen does, thus denying body tissues a sufficient supply of oxygen. At low levels, CO exposure causes no obvious symptoms, although people exposed to low CO levels may experience decreased exercise tolerance and shortness of breath during exertion. The first and most obvious symptom is usually a headache with throbbing temples. Symptoms of acute CO poisoning are headaches, dizziness, sleepiness, nausea, vomiting, and collapse. CO poisoning can lead to coma and death.