According to the Medical Association's report, the median age of those who died indoors was 41. The median age of those killed in their cars was 32. This 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 automobiles run in a confined space, when indoor appliances such as gas ovens and dryers are improperly operated, and in other similar ways. It is believed that about 1,500 people die every year in the U.S. from carbon monoxide poisoning.
Thousands more become sick.
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. 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.