Litigation

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

By Michael Kaplen

Carbon Monoxide poisoning frequently results in brain damage. As the temperature gets colder and more furnaces and portable heaters are used, there is a dramatic increase in carbon monoxide poisoning cases.

The Poison Control Center today issued the following warning and press release pertaining to the dangers of carbon monoxide exposure and poisoning in the winter season:                        

The onset of cold weather greatly increases the chances for exposure to poisonous carbon monoxide (CO) gas as consumers increase their use of appliances such as space heaters andportable generators, warns the American Association of Poison Control Centers (AAPCC).  Every year,hundreds of deaths and many thousands of illnesses result from exposure to CO.

Among the numerous potential sources of CO are furnaces, water heaters, stoves, ovens, space heaters, wood and gas fireplaces, wood-burning stoves, portable generators and automobile engines.

?All fuel powered engines produce CO gas,? explains AAPCC Board Member Edward P. Krenzelok, PharmD, director of the Pittsburgh Poison Center.  ?Although such devices are safe if used correctly, a malfunction or improper ventilation can make these common household appliances deadly.? 

Carbon monoxide gas is lethal, even though it is colorless, odorless, and tasteless. It may kill quickly or slowly, and the warning signs specific to carbon monoxide are also common to the flu and food poisoning. Even when it is not fatal, carbon monoxide can cause permanent damage to the brain and other parts of the nervous system.  Symptoms include aches, dizziness, headache, confusion, and other symptoms also found with flu and typical cold-weather viruses.

AAPCC suggest taking some simple steps to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning:

? Have all of your combustion appliances and especially your furnace inspected and adjusted before every heating season.

? Have your chimney, fireplace, and wood stoves, and flues inspected before every heating season.

? Have chimneys and flues repaired as needed.

? Do not use charcoal grills indoors for cooking or heating.

? Do not use your oven for heating your home.

? Do not leave your car?s engine running in an enclosed or attached garage, even if the door is open.

? Install a carbon monoxide alarm outside of every sleeping area in your home.

Poison control centers around the country are prepared to respond with information and treatment advice about CO poisoning.  To reach a local poison center call 1-800-222-1222.  More information about CO poisoning may be found on the AAPCC?s Website.

In many cases the responsibility for carbon monoxide exposure rests with the landlord.  If your family member or yourself as been a victim of carbon monoxide poisoning, the brain injury lawyers at the brain injury law firm of De Caro & Kaplen, LLP

Full post as published by Brain Injury News and Information on November 12, 2008 (boomark / email).