Citation

Roberts KJ, Fowler E, Comstock RD, Fernandez S, Abdel-Rasoul M, Mihalov L, Casavant MJ, McKenzie LB. J. Prim. Prev. 2018; 39(1): 1-15.

Affiliation

Division of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2018, Holtzbrinck Springer Nature Publishing Group)

DOI

10.1007/s10935-017-0493-4

PMID

29098523

Abstract

Although the proper installation and maintenance of carbon monoxide (CO) and smoke alarms can protect individuals from residential CO-related and fire-related injuries, these devices are underutilized. We describe characteristics associated with self-reported CO and smoke alarm use of parents recruited from a pediatric emergency department to improve CO alarm use. Parents of children ≤ 18 years (N = 299) reported socio-demographic characteristics and CO and smoke alarm ownership and practices. We assigned participants to a behavioral profile and a Precaution Adoption Process Model stage based on their self-reported CO and smoke alarm use. Most participants (71%) did not have CO alarms in their homes, but reported owning at least one working smoke alarm (98%). Participants who reported "perfect" CO alarm behavior (defined as having a working CO alarm, one near a sleeping area, with batteries replaced every 6 months; 9%) were more likely to earn a higher income, own their home, and have lived at their current residence for at least 2 years. Participants who reported "perfect" smoke alarm behavior (defined as having a working smoke alarm on every level, with batteries replaced every 6 months; 49%) were more likely to rent their home, receive federal assistance, and have lived at their current residence for at least 2 years. Interventions to increase correct CO alarm use are necessary.

Language: en

Keywords

Carbon monoxide; Emergency department; Injury; Precaution Adoption Process Model; Smoke alarm