November 2025: Carbon Monoxide Safety and Awareness Month

WHEREAS, the State of Michigan recognizes the serious threat that carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning poses to the health and safety of its residents and is committed to raising awareness and preventing unnecessary injuries and deaths; and

WHEREAS, CO, often referred to as the "Invisible Killer," is a colorless, odorless, tasteless, and poisonous gas that can only be detected by an electronic sensor. In 2023 (the most recent year of data), Michigan recorded 481 cases of unintentional CO poisoning, including 31 deaths, with the top sources of CO being fuel-burning vehicles, portable generators, furnaces, and water heaters; and

WHEREAS, CO detectors should be regarded as critical life safety devices rather than optional injury prevention tools. These detectors play a vital role in early warning and prevention of CO-related fatalities; and

WHEREAS, the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning often mimic common illnesses and may include headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, weakness, chest pain, and confusion. High levels of exposure can lead to unconsciousness and death; and

WHEREAS, approximately 70% of all CO poisonings occur in the home, yet only 14% of U.S. households report having functioning CO detectors properly installed; and

WHEREAS, CO can be produced at dangerous levels when fuel-burning appliances such as furnaces, stoves, water heaters, portable generators, vehicles, ovens, fireplaces, portable heaters, charcoal grills, and boats are operated without proper ventilation or maintenance; and

WHEREAS, CO poisoning can occur anywhere—including homes, workplaces, RVs, cabins, and during recreational activities like tailgating—making prevention and education critically crucial for all Michigan residents; and

WHEREAS, the most effective ways to prevent CO poisoning include installing carbon monoxide detectors with audible alarms on every level of the home and near sleeping areas, conducting annual inspections of appliances and heating systems, and always following manufacturer safety guidelines; and

WHEREAS, the misuse of portable generators, vehicles, and power equipment in enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces is a leading cause of CO poisoning. Portable generators must always be operated outdoors and placed at least 20 feet away from homes and openings; and

WHEREAS, Michigan residents can reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning by taking the following preventive actions: Install CO detectors on every level of the home and near sleeping areas, test CO detectors monthly and replace them every five years, and leave immediately and call emergency services if CO exposure is suspected; and

WHEREAS, the Michigan State Police (MSP), the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) and the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) through the Bureau of Fire Services and its MI Prevention program have joined forces to increase public awareness, promote safety and ensure homes, equipment and workplaces are properly maintained and protected against carbon monoxide exposure; and WHEREAS, Michiganders are encouraged to visit MIPrevention.org, Michigan.gov/CarbonMonoxide , www.cpsc.gov, and www.ncoaa.us to learn more about carbon monoxide poisoning, prevention strategies, and available resources.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, Governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim November 2025 as Carbon Monoxide Safety and Awareness Month in Michigan. I urge all residents to take proactive steps to protect themselves and their loved ones from this invisible and potentially deadly threat. I further encourage all state employees, first responders, caregivers, and Michigan residents to ensure they have properly installed, functional carbon monoxide detectors in their homes during the fall and winter seasons—when the risk of CO exposure is highest.