CO poisoning is particularly of concern after emergency situations, such as power outages or natural disasters because of certain equipment people use during these events that give off CO. Generators, grills, camp stoves, gasoline-powered equipment, propane, natural gas, or charcoal-burning devices should never be used inside a home, basement, garage, camper, or even outside in close proximity to an open window.

CO poisoning can also occur outdoors in fresh air and has been reported while boating. In this case, CO poisoning is attributed mostly to generator exhaust that builds up inside and outside a boat in areas near exhaust vents. Dangerous concentrations of CO can accumulate within seconds; therefore, schedule regular engine and exhaust system maintenance with your boat and install and test daily a battery operated CO detector.

When we breathe in oxygen, it binds to the red blood cells. The red blood cells then transport the oxygen all around the body. When CO is breathed in, it binds to the red blood cells more quickly than oxygen can. When increasing amounts of CO are breathed in, there is little or no room for oxygen in the blood. A lack of oxygen in the body damages tissues and results in death. Because CO poisoning can happen so quickly, it is imperative that you know the symptoms. Be aware that it can be hard to diagnose because the symptoms are similar to the symptoms of other illnesses. CO poisoning is characterized by headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion. At higher concentrations, CO poisoning can result in loss of consciousness and death. People who are sleeping or intoxicated can die from CO poisoning before ever experiencing symptoms.

Even though everybody is susceptible to CO poisoning, some people are especially vulnerable. Unborn babies, infants and people with respiratory problems, chronic heart disease, or anemia can feel the effects of CO poisoning more so than others.

Carbon monoxide poisoning is completely preventable. Follow these recommendations to reduce your risk:

DO

• Install a battery-operated or battery backup CO detector in your home. Check or replace the battery when you change the time on your clocks each spring and fall. If the alarm goes off, leave your home immediately and call 911.
• Place CO detectors near every sleeping area in your residence.
• Have your heating system, water heater, and any other gas, oil, or coal burning appliances serviced by a qualified technician every year.
• Seek prompt medical attention if you suspect CO poisoning. Symptoms include feeling dizzy, light-headed, or nauseous.

DO NOT

• Do not use a generator, charcoal grill, camp stove, or other gasoline or charcoal-burning device inside your home, basement, tent, garage, or near a window.
• Do not run a car or truck inside a garage attached to your house, even if you leave the door open.
• Do not burn anything in a stove or fireplace that isn't vented.
• Do not heat your house with a gas oven.

Resources

• Carbon Monoxide and Public Health - Utah Environmental Epidemiology Program
• Carbon Monoxide Poisoning - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• Profile of Carbon Monoxide - Utah Division of Air Quality

Inpatient Hospital Discharges (based on Admission Date)

• Number of Carbon Monoxide Hospital Discharges
• Crude Rates of Carbon Monoxide Hospital Discharges
• Age-adjusted Rates of Carbon Monoxide Hospital Discharges

Emergency Department Encounters (based on Admission Date)

• Number of Carbon Monoxide Emergency Department Encounters
• Crude Rates of Carbon Monoxide Emergency Department Encounters
• Age-adjusted Rates of Carbon Monoxide Emergency Department Encounters

Inpatient Hospital Discharges (based on Discharge Date)

• Inpatient Hospital Discharges (based on Discharge Date) - includes Discharges, Length of Stay, Charges, and Deaths

Emergency Department Encounters (based on Discharge Date)

• Emergency Department Encounter (based on Discharge Date) - includes Treat and Release, Treat and Admit (Inpatient), and All Encounters

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The Utah EPHT Network looks at the number of emergency department visits and inpatient hospitalizations due to unintentional carbon monoxide poisoning. The UEPHTN also receives Carbon Monoxide exposure information reported to the Poison Control Center. Additionally, The Office of Vital Records and Statistics provides data regarding Carbon Monoxide mortalities.

There is also survey data on how many Utah residents report having at least one carbon monoxide detector in their home.

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