 The true number of incidents of carbon monoxide poisoning is unknown , since many non @-@ lethal exposures go undetected . From the available data , carbon monoxide poisoning is the most common cause of injury and death due to poisoning worldwide . Poisoning is typically more common during the winter months . This is due to increased domestic use of gas furnaces , gas or kerosene space heaters , and kitchen stoves during the winter months , which if faulty and / or used without adequate ventilation , may produce excessive carbon monoxide . Carbon monoxide detection and poisoning also increases during power outages . 
