As a nation we are making progress in our fight against accidental death from carbon monoxide poisoning. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, deaths in the U.S. from carbon monoxide poisoning decreased in a recent decade's time from over 1500 a year to just under 900 a year. Yet all would agree that 900 deaths a year from carbon monoxide is 900 too many.
Carbon monoxide is insidious.
It is colorless, odorless and non-irritating. Early symptoms of exposure to carbon monoxide can be vague and include headache, feeling dizzy or weak, and being nauseated. Later the victim typically becomes confused, goes into coma and may die. The fall and winter are peak times for carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide , as a product of combustion, can be emitted from inadequately vented home heaters.