Four deaths due to carbon monoxide poisoning in car washes

In a period of 13 months, three separate incidents of lethal carbon monoxid e (CO) poisoning in closed car wash bays resulted in the deaths of 4 white men aged 20 to 36 years. Each man appears to have been intoxicated with min d-altering substances, which may impair judgment, perception of outside con ditions, and self-awareness. All four died in winter months. For three men, the deaths were ruled accidental, and for the remaining man, the previous deaths appear to have provided a model for suicide. Warning signs may not b e effective to prevent future CO deaths in car washes because of the possib le role of intoxication. Mechanical or electronic methods to prevent a bay door from closing completely may be preferable.