SPRINGFIELD, IL (Chambana Today) — The Illinois Department of Public Health has released its first-ever statewide surveillance report on carbon monoxide exposure, highlighting the continued risk the gas poses to residents across Illinois.
The report examined unintentional carbon monoxide exposures from 2019 through 2023 and found the incidents led to an average of about 940 emergency room visits, 126 hospitalizations and nearly 57 deaths each year in the state.
State health officials say the data will help improve public awareness campaigns and guide prevention efforts.
“Carbon monoxide poisoning can be a silent killer, but it is also completely preventable,” said IDPH Director Sameer Vohra. “Simple steps like installing and maintaining carbon monoxide alarms and checking appliances can save lives.”
Carbon monoxide exposures occur most often between October and March, when furnaces and other heating sources are frequently used. However, the report notes incidents can happen year-round.
Common sources include malfunctioning furnaces, gas stoves or water heaters, vehicles running in enclosed spaces such as garages, generators used indoors or too close to buildings, and gas-powered tools operated in poorly ventilated areas.
According to the report, fire departments across Illinois responded to more than 50,000 carbon monoxide-related incidents during the five-year study period, with about 95 percent occurring in residential settings.
Michele Pankow, the Illinois State Fire Marshal, said working carbon monoxide detectors remain the best protection.
Officials encourage residents to install and regularly test carbon monoxide alarms and ensure heating systems and appliances are properly maintained to prevent exposure.