For immediate release:
January 20, 2007

Contact:
Mary Kay Hager or Brian Quinn
Public Information
800-392-0272

State Health Department and Department of Public Safety Issue Special Reminder on Dangers of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Due to the continued power outages in Missouri caused by the recent winter storm, the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) and the Missouri Department of Public Safety (DPS) issued a special reminder today to residents who do not have power restored in their homes. DHSS Director Jane Drummond and DPS Director Mark James urged family members, neighbors and friends to contact those who are still without power and remind them of the following precautions to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.

DO ENSURE that natural gas, LP gas, or kerosene space heaters are installed and operated in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

It is very important that residents:

• DO NOT use gasoline or diesel-powered generators inside your home.  Generators should only be used outdoors where there is adequate ventilation.  Generators should be placed where the exhaust will not collect in one area or flow into a structure through open doors or windows.
• DO NOT operate other unvented fuel-burning appliances in any room with closed doors or windows or in any room where people are sleeping.
• DO NOT burn charcoal or use gas grills inside your home. 
• DO NOT use portable fuel-burning camping equipment indoors.
• DO NOT use gas appliances such as ranges, ovens or clothes dryers for heating your home.

• KNOW the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning.  All gasoline and diesel generators create carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas that inhibits the body’s ability to absorb oxygen, a condition that can cause serious health problems, and even death, within a matter of minutes.   The first symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning usually include headache, lightheadedness, dizziness and unexplained sleepiness. Individuals should not wait for these signs, however, since at higher concentrations these symptoms may not occur, or may occur so rapidly that the victim does not have enough time to react. Other symptoms of exposure may include an inability to concentrate, memory loss, hallucinations and loss of coordination.  Chest pain, irregular heartbeat and heart attack are also possible.  Infants, the elderly, smokers, and individuals with heart disease are at special risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.  In the event that you experience these symptoms, immediately leave the area where any such devices are located and seek medical attention or call 9-1-1.

For more information about carbon monoxide poisoning visit the DHSS website at www.dhss.mo.gov/CO/.