Common Sources of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Baton Rouge

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas that can fatally poison its victims. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that over 400 Americans die every year “from unintentional CO poisoning not linked to fires.” At least 7 Louisianians died in 2020 from carbon monoxide poisoning originating from a generator after losing power in Hurricane Laura. Families in Baton Rouge are advised to regularly maintain their gas-powered appliances, install functioning carbon monoxide detectors in their homes, and to never run a generator indoors after storm-related power loss.

Clearly, carbon monoxide poisoning is a serious issue and has affected many Louisiana families this year. Baton Rouge carbon monoxide poisoning lawyers are available to help victims and their families recuperate their losses with a financial settlement. If your family has recently suffered a carbon monoxide poisoning accident, contact a qualified personal injury attorney in Baton Rouge as soon as possible to begin filing your carbon monoxide poisoning claim.

How does carbon monoxide poisoning happen? Is your household at risk? The most common sources of carbon monoxide poisoning in Baton Rouge come from inside family homes. Any appliance in your home that burns gas or other fossil fuels can be a risk for carbon monoxide leaks.

For example, fossil fuel-burning appliances in the home include:

• Furnaces
• Heaters
• Motor vehicles (especially when left running in garage)
• Fireplaces
• Wood stoves
• Power tools
• Gas ovens
• Boilers

It is important to install carbon monoxide detectors near all sleeping areas within your home. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention stress the importance of replacing the batteries in your carbon monoxide detectors at least twice a year to ensure they are functioning properly.

Some of our favorite outdoor activities like boating, camping, or outdoor barbecues rely on safely functioning gas-burning appliances. However, just like indoor appliances, these appliances should be regularly maintained. Make sure to never operate gas-burning appliances within enclosed spaces (such as a tent, garage, or the inside of a boat).

Some examples of outdoor appliances that pose a risk for carbon monoxide leaks include:

• Boat engines/generators
• Lawn equipment
• Charcoal grills
• Portable generators
• Camp stoves
• Lanterns

Besides indoor and outdoor fossil fuel-burning appliances, the next most common source of carbon monoxide poisoning is occupational carbon monoxide leaks. Employers have a legal and moral responsibility to provide their workers with safe working environments, but if workers are exposed to carbon monoxide leaks due to employer negligence, employers could be held financially liable for damages.

The occupations with the highest rate of carbon monoxide exposure include:

• Diesel engine operators
• Taxi drivers
• Welders
• Oilfield workers
• Toll-booth attendants
• Firefighters
• Forklift operators
• Mechanics

As your Baton Rouge carbon monoxide poisoning lawyer, Attorney Berit Hanna can help you and your family receive the financial justice you deserve. Her years of experience serving as a personal injury attorney in Baton Rouge, Louisiana have earned her the reputation of one of the fiercest advocates for Louisiana carbon monoxide poisoning victims and their families. Carbon monoxide poisoning lawyer Berit Hanna commits to representing the best interests of Baton Rouge families.

Whatever the source of your carbon monoxide poisoning, you deserve financial compensation for your injuries. If you or a loved one have been poisoned by carbon monoxide in Baton Rouge, contact Attorney of Counsel of Carabin Shaw, Berit Hanna. Call our office toll-free today at 800-862-1260 to schedule your no-cost, no-obligation initial consultation and case review.