Bianca Silva Gordon et al.
This study assessed Carbon Monoxide (CO) detector use and awareness in Wisconsin. As a SHOW Ancillary study, the investigators surveyed N=466 participants from unique households in four regions of the state. While 80% of those surveyed reported a fuel burning appliance in the home, only 48% had verified CO detectors in the home. Awareness of laws relating to CO monitoring were similarly low, with only 46% households familiar with the regulations. Individuals aware of the law were 2.82 times more likely to have a CO detector.
After adjusting for demographic factors such as income, race, and urbanicity, these characteristics were not significantly associated with CO detector use. The low rates of CO detector use, and awareness suggest a need for targeted education. Through focused public health education efforts, it may be possible to increase detector use and reduce the risk of CO poisoning in Wisconsin.