Understanding the risk ...

According to the United States EPA, carbon monoxide poisoning represents a silent, but very real, killer. The colorless, odorless gas is found as a result of "incomplete" combustion. People become ill when their heaters are not properly vented or are broken, when their automobile is allowed to run in a confined space, when indoor appliances such as gas ovens and dryers operate improperly, and in other similar ways.

When victims inhale carbon monoxide, the gas enters into their bloodstream and replaces life sustaining oxygen. Carbon monoxide imitates oxygen, thereby fooling the victim's body into thinking that there is no problem. This continues while the victim becomes sicker and sicker.

Carbon monoxide mimics the behavior of oxygen without providing its benefits. It is transported through the body and rather than feeding body organs, its cruelly starves them. Because the body needs even more oxygen, the victim's heart rate increases, which brings on poisoning at a more rapid pace. As poisoning continues, a victim can face difficulty breathing, heart damage, brain damage and coma. If fresh air does not become available, the victim can die.

What to watch for....

Initially, carbon monoxide poisoning creates symptoms that are, unfortunately, similar to the flu. This includes headaches, confusion, and nausea. As gas levels increase in the bloodstream, victims may lose consciousness.

Because carbon monoxide poisoning symptoms appear to be flu-like, many who become ill do not realize that they have become poisoned. This can create a real problem, because it is important to remove victims from the poisoned environment as promptly as possible.

If you or a family member has been poisoned by carbon monoxide, the EPA recommends the following action: First, get fresh air immediately. Second, turn off the combustion appliances such as heaters, ovens, etc. After leaving your house, or where it is that you have become sick, call for emergency assistance and tell the operator that you believe you have become poisoned by carbon monoxide. This is important because it may not be readily apparent if you later become unconscious.

Ten years ago, few people discussed this danger. In 1994, tennis star Vitas Gerulaitis died as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning and that incident helped publicize this threat.

It is believed that about 1,500 people die every year in the U.S. from carbon monoxide poisoning. Thousands more become sick.

Indoor appliances which are not probably vented or are otherwise faulty can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. It is important that these appliances be regularly checked.

Carbon monoxide detectors can help protect your family

In the last few years, carbon monoxide detectors have become available and these devise can save lives. They are inexpensive, easy to install, and generally appear to do their job.

According to the Consumer Products Safety Commission, carbon monoxide detectors and alarms can provide much protection against carbon monoxide poisoning. Some suggest that they be installed in hallways near every bedroom in the house. Care must be taken to ensure they are not covered by furniture or by drapes.

In 1993, Chicago became the first municipality to require the installation of carbon monoxide detectors in new residences. Other State and local governments have either followed suit or are considering doing so. For example, a Bill currently pending in New Jersey would require installation state-wide.

There are other measures that should be taken to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Never burn charcoal inside your home or any other confined space. Also, do not leave a car running inside your garage, even with the door open. And, do not use gas appliances, such as your range, owner or close dryer, to heat your house.

The Consumer Products Safety Commission warns that carbon monoxide exposure is most harmful to unborn babies, infants, persons with anemia and persons with a history of heart disease.

Published: December 16, 1998

Use of this article without permission is a violation of federal copyright laws.