LCHD shares tips to help prevent carbon monoxide poisoning

LINCOLN COUNTY – The Lincoln County Health Department (LCHD) this week shared tips to help prevent carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.

“When you spring forward for Daylight Savings Time, take time to protect what matters most – you and your family,” LCHD said. “In Wisconsin, about 500 people each year go to the emergency room because of carbon monoxide. From 2020-2024, Lincoln County had an average of 7.9 CO poisoning-related emergency room visits per 100,000 population. Lincoln County consistently has had a higher rate compared to the state of Wisconsin as a whole.”

LCHD explained that CO is a gas that you cannot see or smell.

“It comes from burning fuels such as wood, gas, propane or charcoal,” LCHD stated. “Preventing CO poisonings, knowing the signs and symptoms and acting fast are key ways to protect you and your family.”

LCHD said individuals can prevent CO poisonings by:

• Installing and maintaining a working CO detector on every level of your home, including the basement. Consider other locations such as cabins, shacks, ice shacks, heated or attached garages, campers, motorized vehicles, workshops, etc.
• Replace batteries twice a year (recommended during Daylight Savings Time).
• Replace your detector every five years or according to manufacturer instructions.
• Hire a professional to inspect your furnace and wood-burning stove every year.

Just as it is important to know what to do to prevent CO poisonings, it is just as important to know what not to do, LCHD added:

• Never run a gas or propane heater or grill inside your home.
• Never use a gas stove or oven to heat your home.
• Never run a car in an enclosed space (even with a door or window open).
• Never use a generator in the home or garage, or right next to windows, vents or doors. Distance generators from your home, camper, tent, etc., with exhaust hoses pointing away from people and structures.

“Recognizing the signs and symptoms of CO poisoning and acting fast is crucial,” LCHD said. “At high levels, carbon monoxide can cause death within minutes.”

Signs and symptoms include:

• Shortness of breath
• Headache
• Difficulty with walking and moving
• Nausea or vomiting
• Dizziness
• Loss of consciousness
• Confusion

“If you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning (experiencing symptoms) or hear an alarm, immediately move to fresh air,” LCHD said. “Then, call 911 and wait in the fresh air until the area has been declared safe for you to return.”