K-State specialist explains the risks involved with carbon monoxide

 

A carbon monoxide detector is a useful tool, says Ricketts

At a glance: Carbon monoxide – an odorless, colorless gas – usually offers no warning signs. K-State's Mitch Ricketts explains the risks -- and what you can do to protect yourself at home and on the farm.

More information: Mitch Ricketts, mrickett@ksu.edu

Related: Protect Your Family from Carbon Monoxide Poisoning | Indoor Air Hazards | Essential Home Maintenance |

 

July 31, 2025

By Olivia Wright, K-State Extension news service

MANHATTAN, Kan. – Carbon monoxide – an odorless, colorless gas – usually offers no warning signs.

When carbon monoxide levels are high enough to cause harm, you may not even know. The gas interferes with the body’s ability to use oxygen.

“High levels of carbon monoxide are dangerous for everyone. Severe exposure may cause death or lasting damage to organs,” said Mitch Ricketts, an agriculture safety and health professor at Kansas State University.

Ricketts said that even low levels of the gas can be hazardous for children, the elderly, unborn babies and people with heart conditions.

“A common source of carbon monoxide comes from internal combustion engines and fuel-burning appliances,” Ricketts said.

This includes small equipment such as lawn mowers, power washers and generators, but also automobiles, tractors, combines, skid-steer loaders and forklifts.

“Carbon monoxide levels are dangerous even if they are low enough to not displace oxygen,” Ricketts said. “A carbon monoxide detector is the only way to know when levels are dangerous.”

Early warning signs of carbon monoxide poisoning may include:

• Dizziness.
• Nausea.
• Sleepiness.
• Headache.
• Tightness or pain in the chest.

Ricketts said those exposed to high levels of carbon monoxide should see a doctor immediately. If a person collapses and carbon monoxide is suspected, call 911.

He adds that to protect yourself and others, proper maintenance of equipment and providing outdoor venting can reduce risk. Carbon monoxide detectors should be installed if fuel-burning equipment is used indoors to prevent hazardous exposure.

“Carbon monoxide detectors should be installed in everyone’s home,” Rickets said. “If equipment that produces carbon monoxide is used in the garage or a shop, then a detector should be installed in there.”

More information on respiratory hazards is available at local extension offices in Kansas.

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