Learn about carbon monoxide poisoning, Thanksgiving Day fire safety and winter weather preparedness.

1. Health and Safety Podcast Nov. 17, 2010

2. Topics Carbon monoxide poisoning. Thanksgiving Day fire safety. Winter weather preparedness.

3. Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Carbon monoxide (CO) is an invisible, odorless, tasteless, toxic gas produced by the incomplete combustion of fuels. Symptoms include headache, fatigue, nausea, dizziness and confused thinking. Without treatment, the victim will lose consciousness and possibly their life.

4. Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Common carbon monoxide causes include: Faulty gas or oil furnaces and water heaters. Using a generator inside or outside too close to windows. Cracked chimney flues. Indoor use of charcoal grills.

5. Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Common carbon monoxide causes include: Use of a gas oven or range to warm a room. Running a car in an enclosed area. Closing the fireplace damper before the fire is completely out.

6. Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Carbon monoxide accidents are preventable. To protect your family: Have a qualified technician inspect your gas furnace and appliances. Never allow your car to run in an enclosed area, especially one attached to your house. Make sure your fireplace is in good repair; do not close the damper before the fire is out. Install CO alarms to give your family a warning if CO is building up in your house.

7. Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Carbon monoxide alarms should be located on every floor of your. If the alarm goes off, everyone should get out immediately and call 9-1-1 from a neighbor's house. Do not open doors and windows so when first responders arrive they can determine the source of the leak.

8. Thanksgiving Day Fires “Thanksgiving Day Fires in Residential Buildings” estimates that there are 2,000 Thanksgiving Day fires in residential buildings in the U.S. that result in an estimated average of five deaths, 25 injuries and $21 million in property loss.

9. Thanksgiving Day Fires The leading cause of all Thanksgiving Day fires in residential buildings is, by far, cooking, and these fires occur most frequently from noon to 4 p.m. More information is available from the United States Fire Administration website at www.usfa.fema.gov and at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/fr.

10. Winter Weather Winter Preparedness Week is Dec. 5-11. Remember these three steps: Make a plan. Get a kit. Stay informed. Go to www.ReadyVirginia.gov or www.fairfaxcounty.gov/emergency for more information.

11. Additional Information www.fairfaxcounty.gov www.fairfaxcounty.gov/emergency 9-1-1 – Emergency police, fire, medical. 703-691-2131 – Non-emergency.