CPSC-PR-24-339 (Aug. 5, 2024) CPSC Urges Those Impacted by Tropical Storm Debby to Take Steps to Prevent CO Poisoning and Other Post-Storm Hazards WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is urging those impacted by Tropical Storm Debby to take steps to protect themselves and their families against carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, electrocution, […]
Category: Carbon Monoxide Hazards
Carbon Monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, and highly toxic gas that poses significant health risks because it interferes with the body’s ability to transport oxygen. When inhaled, CO binds with hemoglobin in red blood cells more effectively than oxygen, forming carboxyhemoglobin and thereby reducing the blood’s oxygen-carrying capacity. This can lead to symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, confusion, and nausea, and in severe cases, it can cause loss of consciousness, organ damage, and even death. Prolonged or high-level exposure to CO, often from faulty heating systems, car exhaust, or other combustion sources, can be particularly dangerous, making it crucial to ensure proper ventilation and install carbon monoxide detectors in homes and workplaces.
Resources:
- OSHA – Fact Sheet: Carbon Monoxide Poisoning (PDF)
- CPSC – Carbon Monoxide Fact Sheet
- NFPA – Carbon Monoxide Alarm Information
- Consumer Reports – Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors
CPSC-PR-24-131 (Feb. 26, 2024) Stay Safe, While Staying Warm This Winter; CPSC Warns Consumers to be Cautious When Using Generators, Furnaces and Space Heaters – New CPSC Report Shows Upward Trend in Non-Fire CO Deaths Continues WASHINGTON, D.C. – As cold weather continues to impact much of the country, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) […]