Thread by @TexasTribune

1/ The February winter storm that left millions in Texas without power is being called the biggest epidemic of carbon monoxide poisoning in recent history.

Texas has done little to prevent it from happening again.

NEW with @ProPublica and @NBCNews.

bit.ly/32Wm3P8

2/ Carbon monoxide is a toxic gas that is colorless and odorless, making it hard to detect until it is too late.

It can kill within minutes. For those who survive, carbon monoxide poisoning can lead to permanent brain damage. bit.ly/32Wm3P8

3/ Facing hypothermia during the February winter storm, many brought charcoal grills inside or ran cars in enclosed spaces, like garages.

These dangerous actions can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. bit.ly/32Wm3P8

4/ The vast majority of states have laws or regulations requiring carbon monoxide alarms in private residences.

Because carbon monoxide can’t be smelled or seen, these devices can be lifesaving. bit.ly/32Wm3P8

5/ Texas is just one of six states without a statewide requirement for monitors in homes.

So, when thousands unknowingly unleashed deadly gases into their homes while trying to stay warm, many lacked the tool to alert them to dangerous carbon monoxide levels.

6/ At least 11 people died because of carbon monoxide poisoning during the winter storm.

More than 1,400 people sought care at ERs and urgent clinics that week. Children made up 42% of the cases. bit.ly/32Wm3P8

7/ We found that Black, Hispanic and Asian Texans suffered a disproportionate share of the carbon monoxide poisonings.

Those groups accounted for 72% of the poisonings, far more than their 57% share of the state’s population. bit.ly/32Wm3P8

8/ Each year, the Memorial Hermann Health System in Houston treats about 50 patients for carbon monoxide poisoning.

But during the winter storm, more than 200 patients sought treatment for carbon monoxide poisoning across the Memorial Hermann system. bit.ly/32Wm3P8

9/ Texas lawmakers have introduced a slew of bills aimed at overhauling the state’s electrical grid.

But little attention has been paid to carbon monoxide alarms. bit.ly/32Wm3P8

10/ With no statewide mandate, Texas has a confusing patchwork of local codes with uneven protections and little enforcement. bit.ly/32Wm3P8

11/ Fire safety advocates say there’s been a significant reduction in poisonings in states with robust statewide rules.

“It is no different than a seat belt," said Jim Smith, the state fire marshal in Minnesota. bit.ly/32Wm3P8

12/ A 2007 bill that would have added more CO alarms across the state failed after industry groups called them "unproven technology" that would do more harm than good. bit.ly/32Wm3P8

13/13 The bill's co-author, former state Sen. Leticia Van de Putte can't shake the feeling that the failure cost lives. bit.ly/32Wm3P8