Health Risks

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

What is Carbon Monoxide (CO)?
Factsheet from the Regional Center for Poison Control and Prevention, serving Massachusetts and Rhode Island. 24-HOUR POISON HOTLINE 1-800-222-1222

CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING IS A REPORTABLE CONDITION IN RHODE ISLAND
Multiple cases of occult carbon monoxide poisoning, i.e., cases in which the patient did not suspect carbon monoxide exposures, have been identified recently at patients visiting emergency departments of hospitals. Patients were initially screened using non-invasive CO-pulsoximeter, with confirmatory blood gas analysis for those with elevated screening levels. Since 2008, health care providers are asked to report all cases of elevated carbon monoxide exposure to the RI Department of Health utilizing this form.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Protect Your Family from a Silent Killer: In addition to having a working carbon monoxide detector in your house, you should never burn anything in a stove or fireplace that isn’t vented properly, never heat your house with a gas oven, and never run a generator in an enclosed space (like your basement) or outside a window where the exhaust could blow indoors, even if the power goes out. (Exit to CDC)

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: Flyers and Other Educational Materials (Exit to CDC)

Educational Materials

• CO Advisory Notice for EMS
• Weatherization Exposure Action Form
• Occupational CO poisoning flyer

Report forms

• Exposure and Action Report
• Health Care Provider Poisoning Report