CPSC reports on carbon monoxide deaths.

Most carbon monoxide-related deaths are caused by furnaces and room heaters, according to a recent report by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Deaths and injuries caused by kitchen appliances like gas ranges are not as common.

To avoid carbon monoxide poisoning, which killed an average of 250 people annually from 1985 to 1990, consumers should have fuel-burning heating systems inspected annually by qualified technicians, the report said.

The report followed a study of 375 incidents in which people were overcome by carbon monoxide fumes. In these incidents, 121 people died and 254 became ill. Investigators found that

* Most deaths and almost all illnesses occurred in apartments, one- or two-family houses, mobile homes, and other permanent residences.

* A third of the deaths occurred in temporary residences, including vehicles, tents, and cabins. All of these deaths were caused by heaters.

* Furnaces and room heaters were responsible for over 80 percent of all deaths.

* Natural gas furnaces and natural gas water heaters were responsible for three-quarters of all illnesses.

* LP gas, natural gas, and kerosene room heaters caused 25 percent of the deaths in permanent residences.

* Over half the victims were overcome in their bedrooms, and mother 25 percent were found in living rooms.

* Twice as many men died of carbon monoxide poisoning as women. The study indicated this was probably because men tend to go camping more often than women.

* The risk of dying or becoming ill from carbon monoxide poisoning increases with age.

In addition to recommending annual inspections, the CPSC urged consumers to install carbon monoxide detectors that meet Underwriter Laboratories (UL) standards. The report cautions that "while no detector is 100 percent reliable, and some individuals may experience health effects at levels of carbon monoxide below the alarm, UL-certified carbon monoxidc detectors are expected to save lives and prevent illnesses."

A copy of the report, "Nonfire-related Carbon Monoxide Incidents: Morbidity and Mortality Related to the Use of Household Appliances," can be obtained by writing the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, 4330 East West Hwy., Bethesda, MD 20814, or by calling [phone].