Carbon Monoxide, it's odorless, colorless and it's deadly, plain and simple. According to the National Center for Disease Control or CDC, more than 500 Americans die from unintentional carbon monoxide poisoning each year. Carbon monoxide is found in combustion fumes, such as those produced by cars and trucks, small gasoline engines, stoves, lanterns, burning charcoal and wood, gas ranges and home heating systems. Carbon monoxide from these sources can build up in enclosed or semi-enclosed spaces. People and animals that live in these spaces can be poisoned by breathing in these deadly fumes.

The most common symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion. High levels of carbon monoxide ingestion can cause a loss of consciousness and even death. Unless suspected, carbon monoxide poisoning can be difficult to diagnose because the symptoms mimic other illnesses such as the flu. People who are sleeping or intoxicated can die from carbon monoxide poisoning before ever experiencing symptoms.

Knowledge is the key to preventing carbon monoxide poisoning. In most cases, the victim did not realize that carbon monoxide was being produced or building up in the air they were breathing. Carbon monoxide can be easily and cheaply detected in the home; several relatively inexpensive carbon monoxide alarms are available at any home improvement store, hardware or convenience store. Consider placing a carbon monoxide alarm on each level of your home and in your bedrooms. It's some of the best money you'll ever spend. Below is a checklist to help keep you safe from carbon monoxide:

* All fuel-burning appliances are properly installed, maintained, and operated; furnaces, water heaters, and gas dryers are inspected annually by a qualified service technician

* Fireplace chimneys and flues are checked and cleaned every year

* Never use a gas range or oven to heat a home

* Never use a charcoal grill, lantern, or portable camping stove inside a home, tent, or camper

* Never run a generator or any gasoline-powered engine inside a basement, garage, or other enclosed structure, even if the doors or windows are open, unless the equipment is professionally installed and vented

* Never run a motor vehicle, generator, or any gasoline-powered engine outside of an open window or door where exhaust can vent into an enclosed area

* Never leave the motor running in a vehicle parked in an enclosed or semi-enclosed space, such as a closed garage

Interested in learning how to become part of the South Farmingdale Fire Department? Join us, we are now accepting applications for Firefighter and EMS Personnel. No experience is necessary and we offer complete training with all the latest equipment. To learn more log onto www.sffd970.com or call 249-4250 and ask for any chief. We are here to serve you 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.