Safety and first aid

Carbon monoxide safety

Carbon monoxide, or CO, is an odourless, colourless gas that can cause sudden illness and death.

What are the sources of carbon monoxide?
Why is carbon monoxide dangerous?
What are the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning?
Can carbon monoxide poisoning be treated?
How do I protect myself from carbon monoxide poisoning?

Remember

  • Carbon monoxide is odourless and colourless but can cause illness or death.
  • People and animals in enclosed spaces can be poisoned by breathing it.
  • Red blood cells pick up carbon monoxide quicker than they pick up oxygen. If there is a lot of carbon monoxide in the air, the body may replace oxygen in blood with carbon monoxide.
  • Carbon monoxide poisoning can be difficult to detect because the symptoms can be confused with fatigue, the common cold or the flu but without the fever symptoms.
  • If you suspect that you are experiencing carbon monoxide poisoning, leave the area and get fresh air immediately.

Where to get help

If you suspect you have carbon monoxide poisoning, immediately remove yourself or the affected person from the premises.

If the affected person is unconscious and cannot be moved, turn off the suspected appliance, open doors and windows, remove yourself from the premises and call emergency services on triple zero (000).

  • Immediately ring triple zero (000) if the affected person is unconscious.
  • Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26.
  • See your doctor.
  • Ring healthdirect Australia on 1800 022 222.

Acknowledgements

Public Health (Environmental Health)


This publication is provided for education and information purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical care. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not imply endorsement and is not intended to replace advice from your healthcare professional. Readers should note that over time currency and completeness of the information may change. All users should seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional for a diagnosis and answers to their medical questions.

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