Each year, more than 400 Americans die from unintentional carbon monoxide poisoning not linked to fires, more than 20,000 visit the emergency room, and more than 4,000 are hospitalized.

The plain truth is that everyone is at risk for CO poisoning, but infants, the elderly, people with chronic heart disease, anemia or breathing problems are more likely to get sick from CO.

As a way to promote awareness of its dangers, in November and December, the Kane County Healthy Places Coalition is promoting CO safety through coordinated efforts. Partners include the Kane County Safety Coalition, Kane County Fire Districts, and 14 home improvement stores. Carbon monoxide is among the Healthy Homes Campaign focus areas this year as we educate county residents about the ways they can prevent harmful environmental exposures right in their own homes.

During these cold weather months, carbon monoxide colorful educational posters and displays will be visible throughout the county, in fire departments and placed in the 14 partnering home improvement stores, to inform community members of the dangers of CO and how to protect their home. Staff members of the partnering stores have been provided with tip cards about carbon monoxide and CO detectors to better inform and assist the patrons of the store.

Carbon Monoxide Facts and Tips

• Carbon monoxide cannot be seen, smelled, or heard.
• Carbon monoxide poisoning results in flu-like symptoms.
• Have at least one CO detector – only half of homeowners are likely to own a CO detector.
• Place CO detector near bedrooms/living areas as opposed to just basements and utility rooms.
• Have heating system, ventilation, chimney and flue inspected annually by a qualified technician.
• If the alarm sounds, open the windows for fresh air. If illness/symptoms occur, evacuate immediately and call 911.
• Do not use generators indoors.
• Do not barbeque in the garage or household.
• Replace batteries in CO detector every six months not only when the detector “chirps” to notify of low battery
• Tip: Make a habit of changing batteries in detectors (CO & smoke) for Daylight Savings.

For more information about the Health Places Coalition, please visit the Kane Healthy Places website www.kanehealthyplaces.com or contact Terry Roman at 630-264-7653 or email RomanTerry@co.kane.il.us.

Retail Stores Participating in Carbon Monoxide Awareness

• Home Depot, 1250 N. Orchard Road, Aurora
• Home Depot, 2111 S. Randall Road, Geneva
• Home Depot, 440 Randall Road, South Elgin
• Sugar Grove Ace Hardware, 160 E. Galena Boulevard, Sugar Grove
• Ace Hardware, 2144 W. Galena Boulevard, Aurora
• Ace Hardware, 994 N. Lake St., Aurora
• Ace Hardware, 1901 W. Wilson St., Batavia
• Geneva Ace Hardware, 617 W. State St., Geneva
• DG Ace Hardware, 2650 E. Main St., St. Charles
• Ziegler’s Ace Hardware, 301 Randall Road South Elgin
• Ziegler’s Ace Hardware, 1158 Lillian St., Elgin
• Ziegler’s Ace Hardware, 215 N. Spring St., Elgin
• Lowe’s, 955 S. Randall Road, St. Charles
• Ziegler’s Ace Hardware, Meadowdale Shopping Center, Carpentersville

About the Healthy Places Coalition

The mission of the Kane County Healthy Places Coalition is to engage all interested community members in assessing interest and issues for improving overall community health. The Coalition is formed by participants from diverse aspects of the community, including the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the Kane County Health Department, municipal governments, hospitals, fire departments, community advocacy groups, non-profits, private corporations and many others. For more information, vision the Kane County Healthy Places Coalition web page.

About the Kane County Health Department

In active partnership with our community, the Kane County Health Department improves the quality of life and well-being of all residents by developing and implementing local policies, systems, and services that protect and promote health, and prevent disease, injury and disability. Visit the Health Department’s Facebook Page and sign up for the award-winning “Health Matters” newsletter.