CHILDHOOD INJURY IN CONNECTICUT

• Carbon monoxide is colorless, odorless and tasteless - and can be produced by household appliances fueled with gas, oil, kerosene or wood.
• 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.
• Between 2001 and 2003, 28 deaths were reported from carbon monoxide poisoning for children ages 14 and under.
• Between 2001 and 2003, 1,596 carbon monoxide poisoning cases were 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.

Nonfatal Exposure

Between 2001-2003, the average number of exposures per year that resulted in non-fatal injuries were: 1,596 occurred among 0-4 year olds 2,352 occurred among 5-14 year olds Death

Between 2001-2003, the average numbers of deaths per year from Carbon Monoxide poisoning were:
9 occurred among 0-4 year olds
19 occurred among 5-14 year olds

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.

 

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