Carbon Monoxide Does NOT Discriminate

Don’t Be the Next Statistic. Experts at the state’s poison control center are all too familiar with the dangerous, even deadly health effects of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. The center is often involved in the medical management of patients exposed to carbon monoxide.

Carbon monoxide is a poisonous gas overlooked by many because it gives no warning – you can’t see, smell, hear, or taste it. The effects of CO are hard to detect, and symptoms often mimic those of viral illnesses like the common cold and the flu. Additionally, the gas is undetectable without a working carbon monoxide detector. This combination creates the perfect storm for a dangerous, even deadly public health risk.

Last month, U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-N.J) visited the New Jersey Poison Control Center at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School to discuss the significant health risks posed by carbon monoxide exposure. While visiting the poison center, he announced bipartisan legislation requiring carbon monoxide detectors be installed in all federally subsidized residences. It is important to remember that CO poisoning poses a risk to all people and pets, including those living in public or rural housing. Read more: http://bit.ly/2CbuvN5.

Call to Action: Avoid poisoning tragedies by making the call to the NJ Poison Control Center, anytime day or night (24/7). Call FAST to treat a poisoning - Call FIRST to prevent one, 1-800-222-1222. You can also text/chat via www.njpies.org. Save Poison Control's number in your phone today so you're prepared for what may happen tomorrow. Help is fast, free and private.

If someone is unconscious, not breathing, hard to wake up, or seizing, call 9-1-1 immediately. Get Connected to NJ Poison Control: FB / Twitter/ Website