Key Points for Weeks 47 and 48 (November 22–December 5, 2010)

• The number of reported cases of carbon monoxide poisoning is higher (+130%) compared to the same period last year. Extremely cold weather conditions are likely responsible for this increase in CO poisoning incidents.

• A mass CO poisoning incident occurred in a public venue (a church), exposing a total of 28 people to carbon monoxide fumes. According to information available at the time of the report, radiant panel heating was responsible for this mass poisoning incident.

• Four accidental deaths—three in the home and one in a garage involving a vehicle—were reported to the surveillance system. One of the deaths was linked to the use of a generator following a power outage, and a second was linked to the use of a space heater.