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The drop in carbon monoxide (CO) emissions from automobiles following the introduction of the catalytic converter in 1975 has saved about 11,700 lives from intentional and unintentional carbon monoxide poisoning. Since 1975, the rate of vehicle-related CO suicides decreased 43% and the rate of unintentional vehicle-related deaths decreased 81%.

The article discusses the results of a study conducted by the Centre for Disease Control (CDC) to assess the impact of storm-related carbon monoxide (CO) exposure in Texas due to Hurricane Ike in September 2008, to help develop preventive strategies for the same. The need is to develop public health interventions during storm preparation, warnings and response periods.

The incidence of unintentional exposure to carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning in nonfatal, unintentional and non fire cases in the U.S. from 2004-2006 is presented. Sources of CO poisoning include combustion devices and occupational sources among others and can cause mild to severe symptoms.

The deaths that occurred due to exposure carbon monoxide in the U.S. during 1999 and 2004 are presented. Precautions that should be observed to reduce risk of exposure are presented.

Carbon monoxide (CO) in the air may increase to dangerous levels during indoor sporting events involving trucks and cars. CO is a colorless, odorless gas produced by internal combustion engines. CO combines with a component of the blood and deprives tissues of oxygen. CO levels in an indoor arena in Cincinnati, OH, were monitored during several events involving cars and trucks. The arena has a seating capacity of 16,000. CO levels were monitored before and during the two- to three-hour events. Levels averaged 13 parts per million (ppm) before the events. CO levels varied between 79 ppm and 283 ppm during the events. Exposure to CO levels between 80 and 140 ppm over one to two hours can lead to significant decreases in the oxygen available to the body. In susceptible people, these levels can lead to irregular heart beats. Infants, fetuses, people with cardiovascular or lung diseases and pregnant women are most susceptible to CO poisoning.