Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that is highly toxic to humans and animals. It is produced when carbon-containing fuels—like gasoline, wood, coal, propane, or natural gas—burn incompletely due to a lack of oxygen.

Key facts about carbon monoxide:

• Chemical formula: CO

• Toxicity: It binds with hemoglobin in the blood more effectively than oxygen does, reducing the blood's ability to carry oxygen to cells and organs.

• Sources: Car exhaust, faulty furnaces, gas stoves, generators, or any appliance that burns fuel.

• Symptoms of poisoning: Headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, confusion, and in severe cases, loss of consciousness or death.

• Detection: It cannot be seen or smelled, so carbon monoxide detectors are essential in homes and buildings.