Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Can Be Deadly — it's Preventable
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that can cause sudden illness or death. CO poisoning symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, vomiting, confusion, and fatigue. If you suspect CO poisoning, seek medical care immediately.
CO is produced by fuel-burning appliances, vehicles, generators, and grills. In Minnesota, unintentional CO poisoning leads to emergency visits, hospitalizations, and deaths each year—especially in winter. Most of these incidents are preventable with proper use and maintenance of CO alarms.
Prevention Tips:
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Install CO alarms near every sleeping area, as required by Minnesota law (Minn. Stat. §§ 299F.50–299F.51).
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Ensure fuel-burning appliances are properly installed, vented, and maintained.
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Never use portable generators, grills, or fuel-powered equipment indoors or near windows, garages, or fish houses.
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Regularly inspect and tune up combustion appliances.
For more information on carbon monoxide poisoning:
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The MDH Indoor Air Program oversees some CO regulations that apply to enclosed sports arenas in Minnesota and educates the public regarding CO poisoning prevention. For more information, see: Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Your Home-MDH
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The MDH Minnesota Environmental Public Health Tracking Program tracks data related to CO exposure and poisoning. An important application for tracking data is to monitor the impacts of state and local public health programs and policies that are designed to reduce exposure and prevent disease. Winter Weather: Before, During, and After-CDC.
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The Hennepin County Medical Center's Minnesota Poison Control System provides emergency poison management and poison prevention information.