Whereas, Carbon monoxide poisoning is caused by the incomplete combustion of fuels, including oil, propane, natural gas, coal, wood, kerosene, gasoline, diesel fuel and charcoal appliances, generators and vehicles; and,

Whereas, Improper operation or venting of appliances, including furnaces, water heaters, range tops, ovens, fireplaces, portable heaters, and even the idling of vehicles in garages that are attached to buildings can result in potentially harmful levels of carbon monoxide in the air; and,

Whereas, Each year the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates that more than 200 people die from carbon monoxide poisoning, and thousands more suffer from the effects of undetected carbon monoxide; and,

Whereas, Michigan utility companies continue to offer educational information to residents to help them recognize the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning and what precautionary measures they can take to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning; and, 

Whereas, The best ways to protect a house or business against carbon monoxide poisoning is to keep furnaces and other appliances in proper working order by having regular inspections and tune-ups and by installing carbon monoxide detectors with audible alarms;

Now, Therefore, be it Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, governor of the state of Michigan, do hereby proclaim the week of October 26, 2009, Carbon Monoxide Safety and Awareness Week in Michigan.  Public education and awareness are important to protect the residents of the state of Michigan against carbon monoxide poisoning and its effects.