Carbon Monoxide

CO is called the "Invisible Killer" because it's a colorless, odorless, poisonous gas. Learn how to protect your family from this deadly gas.

Carbon monoxide, also known as CO, is called the "Invisible Killer" because it's a colorless, odorless, poisonous gas. More than 150 people in the Unites States die every year from accidental non-fire related CO poisoning associated with consumer products, including generators. Other products include faulty, improperly-used or incorrectly-vented fuel-burning appliances such as furnaces, stoves, water heaters and fireplaces.

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An Alarm Can Save Your Life

Working CO alarms matter. Install one and check its batteries regularly.

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On Safety Blogs: CO Safety

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Research & Statistics

NOVEMBER 18, 2020

Non-Fire Carbon Monoxide Deaths Associated with the Use of Consumer Products - 2017 Annual Estimates

AUGUST 17, 2020

Fatal Incidents Associated with Non-Fire Carbon Monoxide Poisoning from Engine-Driven Generators and Other Engine-Driven Tools, 2009-2019

CPSC Safety Alerts and Neighborhood Safety Network posters are not available to order. If you would like to use these safety publications, they are free to download and print.

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Safety Resources

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning with Camping Equipment

Never use portable heaters or lanterns while sleeping in enclosed areas such as tents, campers and vehicles.

What to Know: Generators and CO

Using a generator indoors can kill you in minutes. Generator exhaust contains carbon monoxide. This is a poison you cannot see or smell. Only use a generator outside, far away from windows, doors and vents.

The Invisible Killer

Carbon monoxide (CO) is an invisible killer. Learn about the warning signs and how to prevent CO poisoning.

The Invisible Killer in Spanish

Responding to Residential Carbon Monoxide Incidents

Guidance for first responders about residential carbon monoxide incidents.

Portable Generators Pose a Serious Carbon Monoxide Hazard

Use portable generators outside only and far from your home. Neveroperate them indoors or in the garage.

Carbon Monoxide Doorhanger

Protect yourself from carbon monoxide when using portable generators. Carbon monoxide is a poisonous gas and can kill you.

Carbon Monoxide Doorhanger in Spanish

Surviving the Aftermath of a Hurricane

Deadly dangers exist after a hurricane strikes. Safety tips on portable generators, candles, gasoline, charcoal and appliances.

Surviving the Aftermath of a Hurricane in Spanish

Portable Generator Hazards

Always use portable generators outside, far from the home. Never operate a generator inside a home, garage, basement, crawlspace or shed, or near a window or exterior vent.

Portable Generator Hazards in Spanish

Carbon Monoxide Fact Sheet

Protect your family from carbon monoxide dangers.

Is Your Home Protected?

Install and maintain CO alarms in your home to protect your family against the "invisible killer."

Get to Know Carbon Monoxide Alarms

Carbon monoxide (CO) is called the "invisible killer." You cannot see or smell it, but a carbon monoxide alarm can detect CO. That is why it is so important to have CO alarms in your home.