ATLANTA, Dec. 21 (UPI) -- From 1999 to 2004, an average of 439 people have died annually from unintentional, non-fire-related carbon monoxide poisoning in the United States.

The study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report said increasing public education regarding the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning, especially during the winter heating season, may help in preventing deaths attributed to accidental carbon monoxide exposure.

The development of a national surveillance system that is dedicated to monitoring carbon monoxide-related health outcomes could also help in targeting public health prevention efforts and reduce the morbidity and mortality related to carbon monoxide poisoning, the report said.

Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that can cause sudden illness and death if inhaled. Carbon monoxide is produced by small gasoline engines, stoves, generators, lanterns and gas ranges, or by burning charcoal and wood.