The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that about 500 people a year - including about 30 kids - die of carbon monoxide poisoning, and even more are sickened. This odorless, colorless gas is given off when gas, oil, kerosene or wood are burned, and it's the most common poison in our environment. Many people think of winter when they think of carbon monoxide - natural gas heating systems may malfunction, fireplaces may not be vented properly or letting a car warm up in the garage - are all culprits. But carbon monoxide poisoning can happen anytime. In the summer, danger zones include being around boats, which give off fumes as they idle, or around gas grills that don't have proper ventilation. Landscaping equipment, such as lawn mowers and leaf blowers, can give off the gas as well. The gas binds to red blood cells, where it replaces oxygen and doesn't allow it to reach the rest of the body. Symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness - similar symptoms as heat exhaustion or food poisoning. Babies, pregnant women and children with respiratory issues such as asthma, are particularly susceptible.
If you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning, get the person outside into fresh air and away from any potential carbon monoxide sources. Prevent carbon monoxide poisoning by keeping grills away from open windows, where wind can help the gas invade the indoors. Even running a gas grill in an open garage or carport can cause harmful fumes to build up. If you must use a generator, keep it far away from the house and invest in a carbon monoxide detector. When you head out on the boat, be sure to keep kids away from the back of the boat when swimming and when idling or going very slowly. Be cautious around other boats, which may increase carbon monoxide levels, and if anyone has seasickness symptoms, get them to fresh air fast - it could be carbon monoxide poisoning. Install carbon monoxide detectors in your home, and if you have a fireplace, then you should have it inspected by a professional before you start a fire.