CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING FACT SHEET

• Carbon monoxide is colorless, odorless and tasteless - and can be produced by household appliances fueled with gas, oil, kerosene or wood.
• Each year, more than 2,110 children age 5 and under are poisoned by carbon monoxide.
• Effects of carbon monoxide often mimic the flu: headaches, fatigue, dizziness, nausea and diarrhea.
• Carbon monoxide detectors offer the best protection when placed in bedrooms and on the ceiling at least 15 feet from fuel-burning appliances.
• In 2002 there were 6 reported deaths from carbon monoxide poisoning for children ages 14 and under.
• In 2002, there were 2,125 carbon monoxide poisoning cases reported for children ages 5 and under.
• Children are especially vulnerable to carbon monoxide poisoning because they have higher metabolic rates than adults. Children use more oxygen faster than adults, therefore they breathe in more deadly doses of carbon monoxide.

Prevention

• Install a carbon monoxide detector.
• Have a professional install the home heating system and inspect it in the beginning of each winter season.
• Never operate gas-powered engines in confined spaces.
• Never use charcoal grills inside the home, outside an open window, or in an attached garage, even if the door is open.
• Have your household fuel-burning appliances checked.

 

BACK | CT SAFE KIDS