Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas that has a toxic effect on humans and animals. When we are exposed to carbon monoxide, we may experience carbon monoxide poisoning, which causes flu-like symptoms, fatigue, headaches, chest pain and even death. Carbon monoxide poisoning is the most common type of poisoning in the U.S. today. If you or a loved one ever contract carbon monoxide poisoning, it is essential to act quickly.
Instructions
1. If you suspect that you or others are experiencing carbon monoxide poisoning, immediately remove all people and animals from the source of carbon monoxide as quickly and safely as you can. If you are in a house or other building and suspect carbon monoxide, immediately get outside and breathe fresh air.
2. Call 911 and request assistance. Cases of moderate to severe carbon monoxide poisoning can only be treated by trained technicians and even mild cases should be examined by a doctor.
3. Check a poison victim to make sure he is breathing. If so, ensure that he is able to breathe fresh air easily. If he are not breathing, administer CPR until help arrives. To administer CPR, lay the victim flat on the ground on his back, then pinch the victim's nose firmly and cover his mouth with yours. Blow until you see the victim's chest expand, about one second. Give two breaths then check to see if the victim is breathing. If he is still not breathing, press down firmly on the chest (right in between the nipples) 30 times at a rate of 100 pumps per minute. Begin again with the two breaths, continuing the cycle until help arrives.
4. When the paramedics arrive, they will most likely administer 100% oxygen to those affected by carbon monoxide inhalation. Using a tight-fitting oxygen mask, patients will breathe in oxygen in order to hasten the carbon monoxide's release from the body.
5. In most moderate to severe cases of poisoning, the affected person will be transported to a hospital for further treatment. Even if a person seems to be recovering quickly from the effects of inhalation, she may still need medical attention.
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