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Press ReleaseKidde and Safe Kids Remind Parents about the Silent Killer during Poison Prevention WeekMarch 5, 2010 Washington, D.C. - When people think of unintentional poisonings, the toxic products stashed under the kitchen sink or in the laundry room often come to mind. But there is one life-threatening poison that parents may not think about—carbon monoxide (CO). Carbon monoxide is the leading cause of accidental poisoning deaths in America, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), claiming 400 lives and injuring another 20,000 each year. Colorless, odorless, and tasteless, it is often called "the Silent Killer.” The most common symptoms experienced with CO poisoning are headache, nausea, and dizziness. Since these symptoms are similar to those of the flu, carbon monoxide poisoning may often be dismissed as a virus. Unfortunately, the consequences of doing so may be tragic. “Young children are especially vulnerable to the effects of CO. Due to their smaller bodies, children process CO differently than adults and may be more severely affected by carbon monoxide in their blood,” said Alan Korn, executive director for Safe Kids USA. “Parents must be on the alert for the health effects of CO poisoning, which often mimic other common ailments.” Reports from the CDC show that from 2004 to 2006, children aged 5 years and younger had the highest estimated rate of CO-related emergency department visits among all age groups. The majority of Americans use gas, wood, kerosene or another fuel as their home’s main heat source, all of which emit carbon monoxide. Yet, a recent survey by Underwriters Laboratories (UL) found that two-thirds of Americans don't know which common household appliances are potential CO poisoning sources, such as a furnace, water heater, charcoal grill, and portable generator. When these or other fuel-burning devices malfunction or are used improperly, carbon monoxide can quickly build up inside a home, causing injury or even death. So how can families be sure the silent killer isn't lurking in their home? Install a carbon monoxide alarm. It’s the only safe way to detect this poisonous gas. In fact, many state leaders have recognized the importance of having a working carbon monoxide alarm and are taking steps to require their installation. Currently, 24 states require CO alarms in certain residences. In addition, a pending federal bill, the Residential Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Prevention Act, would offer states incentive grants for CO awareness efforts when a similar requirement is passed. "Passage of this important bill would send the important public health message that CO alarms are needed in residences to reduce the risk of CO poisoning for the entire family," said Korn. In addition, families can take these simple steps to reduce the chance of having a CO incident:
For more information on carbon monoxide poisoning as well as other home safety tips, click here.
Media ContactKatherine Collins March 5, 2010
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