In a home with suspected carbon monoxide poisoning, the most important initial action is to

• A. Remove everyone from the residence
• B. Ventilate the area only
• C. Call for assistance
• D. Stay inside and monitor

Answer: (A)

The most important action is to move everyone to fresh air away from the source. Carbon monoxide is invisible and odorless, so the immediate danger is ongoing inhalation, which can quickly cause serious hypoxia and even be fatal. Getting people out of the house stops the exposure right away and provides the best chance to prevent further harm.

After everyone is somewhere safe in the fresh air, call emergency services for medical evaluation and help. Ventilating the area or staying inside to “monitor” does not remove the person from the source of exposure and can allow CO levels to remain high, keeping people at risk. If anyone is unresponsive or not breathing, start CPR and use an AED if available, while awaiting responders.