Campaign to Prevent Accidental Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in the Residential Setting

Abstract

A recent study conducted by the Québec Environmental Health Committee in collaboration with the Québec Poi son Control Centre has shown that in Québec, carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning represents an actual problem which seems to be on the increase. Given the variety of sources and causes of CO poisoning, a collaboration between several partners was needed to organise an effective prevention campaign. This campaign com prised three types of activities: public information, first responders training and regulation. The following'public information' activities were realised: launching of the prevention campaign by way of a press conference and press releases; pamphlet and poster distribution, and dif fusion of specific press releases for risk-involved events. With regard to training, the following activities have tak en place: a document has been produced to assist the personnel answering the phone in local community health centres; training of emergency first responders on a regional basis, and production of a video for the emer gency first responders. Finally, concerning regulation, recommendations have been made to the ministries and organisations responsible for the application of norms and regulations particularly aimed at heating systems and motor vehicles. Various communication and training documents have been produced for these activities. Sev eral of the activities will be continued into 1998-1999.