November 4 - 10, 2019: Carbon Monoxide Safety and Awareness Week

WHEREAS, each year, approximately 140 people in Michigan are hospitalized, while, across the United States, thousands are poisoned and at least 430 people die from accidental carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.

 

WHEREAS, CO is a colorless, odorless, tasteless and poisonous gas known as the “Invisible Killer,” with infants, the elderly, and people with chronic heart disease, anemia, or breathing problems being at greatest risk; and,

 

WHEREAS, the most common symptoms of CO poisoning are headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion, and high levels of CO inhalation can cause loss of consciousness and even death; and,

 

WHEREAS, CO is produced at harmful levels by the improper operation and ventilation of all fuel-burning appliances such as furnaces, water heaters, ovens, fireplaces, generators, portable heaters, charcoal grills, and vehicles; and,

 

WHEREAS, CO poisoning is also caused by the incomplete combustion of fuels including oil, propane, natural gas, wood, coals, kerosene, gasoline and diesel; and,

 

WHEREAS, CO poisoning can also occur when generators are improperly used, and, this equipment, as well as vehicles, power lawn equipment, and snow blowers, should always be operated where there is adequate ventilation, never in enclosed spaces, and everyone is urged to follow all manufacturers’ operating directions; and,

 

WHEREAS, unintentional CO poisoning can occur almost anywhere – in homes, businesses, RVs, cabins, boats, and ice shanties; and,

 

WHEREAS, the single best way to protect against this Invisible Killer is to install carbon monoxide detectors with audible alarms and to keep furnaces and other appliances in proper working order through annual inspections and tune-ups; and,

 

WHEREAS, awareness of CO safety in Michigan is a top priority, and residents are encouraged to learn about this poisonous gas and ensure homes, workplaces, related equipment, and appliances are equipped and maintained to protect themselves and loved ones against possible poisoning;

 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim November 4-10, 2019, as Carbon Monoxide Safety and Awareness Week in Michigan.