OMAHA, Neb. (AP) – The threat of carbon monoxide poisoning grows as the Nebraska weather turns colder.
The Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha says the use of furnaces, fireplaces, car engines and generators in areas with poornventilation can lead to carbon monoxide exposure, so caution should be used.
Carbon monoxide is a colorless, tasteless and odorless gas that can affect the flow of oxygen in the blood stream. Poisoning can take hours to days. Signs include headache, dizziness and flu-like symptoms. Those who are exposed may need oxygen treatments or time in a hyperbaric unit.