Pennsylvania Senate Proposal Targets Carbon Monoxide Risks
Senator Carolyn Comitta proposes designating November as Carbon Monoxide Awareness Month to prevent future tragedies.
Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Asthma
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Pennsylvania Senator Carolyn Comitta has introduced a resolution to officially recognize November as Carbon Monoxide Awareness Month. The move honors the memory of Carly Imbierowicz and Daulton Pointek, who died from carbon monoxide poisoning in 2014.
Why it matters
The resolution aims to boost public awareness of the dangers of carbon monoxide as colder temperatures lead to an increase in heating system usage. It serves as a reminder for residents to ensure their homes have functional detection systems in place.
A local foundation has donated over 1,500 carbon monoxide detectors to the community and local firehouses to improve household safety. These efforts assist in mitigating risks posed by incomplete combustion in appliances like boilers and furnaces.
The players
Carolyn Comitta
Carolyn Comitta is a Pennsylvania State Senator who has introduced legislation to promote public safety regarding carbon monoxide.
Safe Kids Chester County
Safe Kids Chester County is a local organization that partners with advocacy groups to distribute life-saving safety equipment to residents.
The details
Carbon monoxide is an odorless and colorless gas produced by carbon-based fuel combustion in devices like fireplaces and heaters. The foundation established by the Imbierowicz family partners with Safe Kids Chester County to distribute safety equipment and educate the public on reducing exposure risks.
Timeline
The fatal carbon monoxide poisoning of Carly Imbierowicz and Daulton Pointek occurred in 2014.
Senator Carolyn Comitta proposed the resolution in October 2026.
The resolution seeks to designate November 2026 as Carbon Monoxide Awareness Month.
Health Landscape
The proposed resolution extends the public safety framework established by Pennsylvania's Carbon Monoxide Alarm Standards Act. This effort bridges the gap between state-mandated alarm requirements and ongoing community education needed to prevent accidental deaths.
Residents can significantly reduce their risk of carbon monoxide exposure by ensuring their homes are equipped with working detectors. It is also recommended that homeowners have their boilers, stoves, and furnaces professionally inspected before heavy winter usage.
The takeaway
Proactive maintenance of heating appliances and the installation of functional carbon monoxide detectors are the most effective ways to prevent poisoning. Residents should ensure that all combustion-based heaters are checked by a professional during the fall season.
Further reading
For additional information on lung health and air quality, visit the Pennsylvania Asthma section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WTAJ - www.wtaj.com.
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