Four deaths due to carbon monoxide poisoning in car washes.
In a period of 13 months, three separate incidents of lethal carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning in closed car wash bays resulted in the deaths of 4 white men aged 20 to 36 years. Each man appears to have been intoxicated with mind-altering substances, which may impair judgment, perception of outside conditions, and self-awareness. All four died in winter months. For three men, the deaths were ruled accidental, and for the remaining man, the previous deaths appear to have provided a model for suicide. Warning signs may not be effective to prevent future CO deaths in car washes because of the possible role of intoxication. Mechanical or electronic methods to prevent a bay door from closing completely may be preferable.
Carson
H J
HJ
Mercy Medical Center, Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52403, USA.
Stephens
P J
PJ
D000328:Adult; D001336:Automobiles; D002249:Carbon Monoxide Poisoning / Q000473:pathology*; D017809:Fatal Outcome; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male