According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, over 200 people in the United States die annually from carbon monoxide poisoning, usually due to faulty gas appliances. Other organizations, such as the American Medical Association (AMA), estimate much higher rates of death. The AMA has reported that carbon monoxide poisoning is the leading cause of accidental poisoning deaths in the United States.

Carbon monoxide alarms are essential protective devices in homes with gas appliances, gas heaters, and fireplaces. It is recommended that these alarms be connected to the smoke alarm system so that any alarm in the house becomes activated if a problem arises. These alarms should be periodically tested according to the manufacturer's instructions. The average life span of carbon monoxide alarms is relatively short, averaging from 2 to 3 years.

See the National Safety Council's Environmental Health Center Web site for more details at:

www.nsc.org/library/facts/carbmono.htm