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Holiday CO Threat: 58 Exposed in NJ
22 Dec
Summary
- New Jersey Poison Control Center assisted 58 people exposed to carbon monoxide.
- Cold weather increases carbon monoxide risk due to increased reliance on fuel-burning devices.
- Install detectors, check batteries, and never use gas equipment indoors to prevent poisoning.
Holiday gatherings, with increased cooking, heating, and travel, bring a heightened risk of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, a danger that remains unseen and unsmelled. So far this season, the New Jersey Poison Control Center has assisted 58 people, including children, who suffered CO exposure, underscoring the threat during colder months.
Often termed "the silent killer," CO is undetectable by human senses. Initial symptoms like headache and dizziness can mimic the flu, but elevated levels can rapidly lead to unconsciousness or death. Experts emphasize that cold weather elevates this risk due to greater reliance on heaters and other fuel-burning appliances, with even short-term misuse proving deadly.
Preventing CO poisoning is straightforward: install detectors on every level of your home, including sleeping areas and basements. Regularly test these devices and replace batteries at least twice a year. Crucially, never use gas-powered equipment indoors. When traveling, consider carrying a portable CO detector, as not all vacation rentals are equipped with working alarms. If an alarm sounds or poisoning is suspected, evacuate immediately and call for help.
