Carbon Monoxide Poisoning and Cars: on Modification of Opportunities for Suicide

Aiming at reducing the risks for fatal outcomes of poisoning, carbon monoxide poisonings were analyzed. Swedish statistics from 1978-87 were given. Tubing of car exhausts into passenger car compartments by suicidal intent was the main cause. Increased CO oxidizing capacity of car catalysts, exhaust pipes incompatible with tubes & automatic stop of idling dependent on time & ambient CO concentration were suggested measures to reduce opportunities for CO suicides. (23 refs)