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. 2011 May-Jun;126 Suppl 1(Suppl 1):108-15.
doi: 10.1177/00333549111260S114.

Carbon monoxide poisoning after an ice storm in Kentucky, 2009

Emily C Lutterloh  1 , Shahed Iqbal, Jacquelyn H Clower, Henry A Spiller, Margaret A Riggs, Tennis J Sugg, Kraig E Humbaugh, Betsy L Cadwell, Douglas A Thoroughman
Affiliations

Carbon monoxide poisoning after an ice storm in Kentucky, 2009

Emily C Lutterloh et al. Public Health Rep. 2011 May-Jun.

Abstract

Objectives: Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality during natural disasters. On January 26-27, 2009, a severe ice storm occurred in Kentucky, causing widespread, extended power outages and disrupting transportation and communications. After the storm, CO poisonings were reported throughout the state. The objectives of this investigation were to determine the extent of the problem, identify sources of CO poisoning, characterize cases, make recommendations to reduce morbidity and mortality, and develop prevention strategies.

Methods: We obtained data from the Kentucky Regional Poison Center (KRPC), hyperbaric oxygen treatment (HBOT) facilities, and coroners. Additionally, the Kentucky Department for Public Health provided statewide emergency department (ED) and hospitalization data.

Results: During the two weeks after the storm, KRPC identified 144 cases of CO poisoning; exposure sources included kerosene heaters, generators, and propane heaters. Hospitals reported 202 ED visits and 26 admissions. Twenty-eight people received HBOT. Ten deaths were attributed to CO poisoning, eight of which were related to inappropriate generator location. Higher rates of CO poisoning were reported in areas with the most ice accumulation.

Conclusions: Although CO poisonings are preventable, they continue to occur in postdisaster situations. Recommendations include encouraging use of CO alarms, exploring use of engineering controls on generators to decrease CO exposure, providing specific information regarding safe use and placement of CO-producing devices, and using multiple communication methods to reach people without electricity.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
KRPC CO-poisoning cases, with power outages and mean daily temperature— Kentucky, January 26–February 14, 2009
Figure 2
Figure 2
Emergency department visits for CO poisoning, with power outages and mean daily temperature—Kentucky, January 26–February 14, 2009
Figure 3
Figure 3
Emergency department visits for carbon monoxide poisoning, by Area Development District with ice accumulation—Kentucky, January 26–February 14, 2009
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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