Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas that results from burning fuel.
It causes toxic effects in humans by replacing the oxygen in red blood cells and depriving the heart and brain tissue of enough oxygen to function properly. Those most susceptible include young children, people with asthma, people with heart or lung disease, the elderly, and people with anemia. Signs of carbon monoxide exposure include shortness of breath, nausea, headaches, fatigue and dizziness. If you think you are a victim of carbon monoxide poisoning, and that your health is in immediate jeopardy, you should call 911 . If you or your family members show signs of carbon monoxide poisoning, you should open the windows, and then immediately leave the building.