Potential for Increase Cold-related Illness (CRI) and Carbon Monoxide (CO) Emergency Department (ED) Visits – January 17, 2024 

The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a wind chill advisory for much of the southern portion of Michigan on Wednesday, January 17. Parts of western Michigan are also still being impacted by lake-effect snow. The sub-zero wind chill will likely persist throughout the week, especially early in the day.

These conditions increase the risk of cold-related illness (CRI), particularly for more vulnerable populations such as those without shelter. Additionally, during power outages, people may use generators or other gas-powered equipment to power homes or provide a heat source. Improper use of such equipment can lead to Carbon Monoxide (CO) poisonings.

Here are some links to resources and information that will be helpful in responding to CRI and CO poisonings: 

MDHHS Cold Health and Safety and CO Resources: 

• MDHHS Cold Health and Safety Fact Sheet – also in Spanish
• Michigan Prepares – Winter Weather 
• MDHHS Learn More About Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
• Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Factsheet 
• Portable Generators Factsheet 

MDHHS Division of Environmental Health (DEH) Services: 

• Email - MDHHS-DEHresponse@michigan.gov 
• EH Hotline - 1-800-648-6942 (Monitored M-F, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with after-hours service for emergency) 

This message was sent to the following groups and MIHAN roles: local health department EPCs, health officers, administration, PIOs, environmental health and administration, MDHHS Division of Emergency Preparedness and Response, MDHHS Division of Environmental Health, healthcare, emergency managers, and EMS/First responder.