Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas. CO results from the incomplete burning of natural gas, oil, wood, kerosene, charcoal and other fuels under conditions where there isn’t enough oxygen present.

Exposure to low levels of CO can cause flu-like symptoms, such as headaches, nausea, dizziness, drowsiness, weakness and shortness of breath. Higher levels can result in unconsciousness or death. Carbon monoxide impairs the ability of blood to carry oxygen. The brain and heart are very sensitive to lack of oxygen. People with heart and lung disease are at higher risk of developing problems from carbon monoxide, as are children and the elderly.

Make sure your heating system and all fuel burning appliances are adequately vented and properly maintained. Make sure your furnace has an adequate air intake. Don’t use gas stoves or ovens to heat living areas. Do a furnace check, check all fuel-burning appliances and do an energy audit each year in the fall. Install an UL-listed carbon monoxide alarm. A smoke detector does not alarm when CO is present.

Make sure your heating system and all fuel burning appliances are adequately vented and properly maintained. Make sure your furnace has an adequate air intake. Don’t use gas stoves or ovens to heat living areas. Do a furnace check, check all fuel-burning appliances and do an energy audit each year in the fall. Install an UL-listed carbon monoxide alarm. A smoke detector does not alarm when CO is present.

For information on carbon monoxide, contact the Code Enforcement & Public Health Division at (763) 493-8070 or the state health agency.

Minnesota State Statutes:

MS 239.791

Minnesota Department of Health

www.health.state.mn.us/divs/eh/indoorair/co/index.html

Other Carbon Monoxide information:

Environmental Protection Agency

http://www.epa.gov/airtrends/carbon.html

City Codes online: www.amlegal.com/brooklyn_park_mn/