Stronger Warnings Required On Charcoal

Charcoal used in barbecues and campfires will have new labels on the packaging to warn consumers about the dangers of burning charcoal inside.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission voted 2-1 Monday to require revised labels on charcoal bags to alert people that deadly carbon monoxide gas is released when charcoal is burned.

The new label reads, “Burning charcoal inside can kill you. It gives off carbon monoxide, which has no odor. Never burn charcoal inside homes, vehicles or tents.”

Each year, carbon monoxide fumes from charcoal grills and hibachis used inside cause about 28 deaths and 300 hospitalizations, according to the safety commission.