During the warm weather months, many vacationers head for the hills on camping trips. Typically on these trips, campers bring along portable stoves, heaters and lanterns to help make the experience a bit more comfortable.

It’s important to remember that many of these items emit carbon monoxide and can pose a safety hazard if used in a tent or other enclosed space. Each year, approximately 30 deaths and 450 injuries occur from carbon monoxide poisoning from heaters, lanterns or stoves operating inside tents, campers and vehicles. Carbon monoxide reduces the blood’s ability to carry oxygen, and low blood oxygen levels can result in loss of consciousness and death.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission suggests consumers follow these guidelines to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning on a camping trip:

¢ Never use portable heaters or lanterns while sleeping in enclosed areas such as tents, campers and other vehicles. This is especially important at high altitudes, where the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning is increased.

¢ Recognize the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning. These include headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, sleepiness and confusion.

¢ See a doctor if you or a member of your family develops cold or flu-like symptoms while camping. Carbon monoxide poisoning, which can easily be mistaken for a cold or flu, is often detected too late.

¢ Limit alcohol intake and drug use. Alcohol and drug use increases the effects of carbon monoxide poisoning.

¢ Carbon monoxide is especially toxic to mother and child during pregnancy, infants, the elderly, smokers and people with blood or circulatory system problems, such as anemia or heart disease.