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| Contact: Kirk Hughes 612-530-8894 (pager) |
03/18/08 |
Governor Pawlenty has proclaimed March 16-22, 2008 to be Poison Prevention Week Statewide to coincide with National Poison Prevention Week. This year's theme is carbon monoxide (CO) awareness. Carbon monoxide is the leading cause of poisoning death in the U.S. The Minnesota Department of Health estimates that in just five years (2002-2006), 92 Minnesotan-related deaths from unintentional, non-fire related exposures to this colorless, tasteless, odorless gas. For severe cases of CO poisoning, hyperbaric oxygen therapy has long been recognized as a vital treatment. Hennepin County Medical Center houses the largest HBO facility in the Midwest. In 2007, 83 patients with severe CO poisoning were treated in the hyperbaric chamber.
The Hennepin Regional Poison Center and the Hennepin County Medical Center Hyperbaric Medicine unit would like to remind everyone that CO poisoning can be avoided by simply installing CO detectors in the home. As of August 1, 2008, Minnesota State Statute will require all single family homes to have a UL-listed CO detector within 10 feet of each bedroom. On January 1, 2009, this will include all multi-dwelling structures also. Residents should follow manufacturer's instructions on routine maintenance and plan to replace alarms every five to seven years.
CO poisoning can occur anytime of the year. Common sources include malfunctioning gas appliances' or operating gas powered equipment in poorly ventilated spaces. In the winter, CO poisoning can occur in fish houses from improperly venting CO from propane heaters. In the summer, CO poisoning can also occur from being in proximity to boat exhaust during boating activities.
Early signs of CO poisoning include headache, nausea and drowsiness. More serious signs are chest pain, seizures or coma. Pregnant women and people with histories of heart disease or stroke are at greater risk from CO poisoning. If you suspect CO poisoning in your home, leave the home and call 911 immediately from outside the home.
If you have further questions about CO poisoning, contact the Minnesota Poison Control System anytime at 1-800-222-1222 or visit www.mnpoison.org for more information. Visit http://www.hcmc.org/depts/em/hyperbaric.htm for more information about hyperbaric oxygen treatment.
The Minnesota Poison Control System is a cooperative effort between the Minnesota Department of Health and Hennepin Regional Poison Center. Hennepin Regional Poison Center is designated by the Minnesota Department of Health to provide poison information and consultative services to the entire State of Minnesota.
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