TM-9-2350-311-10 M109 Operator's Manual for M109A2, M109A3, M109A4 and M109A5 Download
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TM 9-2350-311-10 CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING CAN BE DEADLY Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, deadly poisonous gas, which, when breathed, de- prives the body of oxygen and causes suffocation. Exposure to air contaminated with carbon monoxide produces symptoms of headache, dizziness, loss of muscular control, apparent drowsiness, coma, permanent brain damage, or even death from severe exposure. Carbon monoxide occurs in the exhaust fumes of fuel-burning heaters and internal-combustion engines and becomes dangerously concentrated under conditions of inadequate ventilation. The following precautions must be observed to ensure the safety of personnel whenever the personnel heater, main engine, or auxiliary engine of any vehicle is operated for maintenance purposes or tactical use. Do not operate heater or engine of vehicle in an enclosed area unless it is adequately ventilated. Do not idle engine for long periods without maintaining adequate ventilation in personnel compartments. Do not drive any vehicle with inspection plates, cover plates, or engine compartment doors re- moved unless necessary for maintenance purposes. Be alert at all times during vehicle operation for exhaust odors and exposure symptoms. If either is present, immediately ventilate personnel compartments. If symptoms persist, remove af- fected personnel from vehicle and treat as follows: expose to fresh air; keep warm; do not permit physical exercise; and if necessary, administer artificial respiration. THE BEST DEFENSE AGAINST CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING IS ADEQUATE VENTILATION. a