It appears to me, that there are a few things in this conversation, which have not been addressed.
Years ago, in "coal country", everybody burned coal, everybody knew how to burn coal, everybody knew how to burn coal safely, although, I'm sure there were those who didn't. I'm only guessing and trying to recall, but I'd say, most of the CO deaths were elderly folks, who couldn't clean their stoves or chimneys, nor had enough money to hire someone to do it.
There were many common practices, in those early years, which were used without ill fate, but today could most likely be fatal. As an example, when dampening down the kitchen stove for the evening, or in these warm months, the stove lids were tipped open to reduce the draft through the coal. Another critical part of the proper stove operation, was the Manual Pipe Damper ... without it, the fire would most assuredly overheat, creating a hazard more feared than the CO, which would be the house burning down.
The big difference between then and now, the coal burners then, were experienced. The coal burners now, very well, could have no experience ... coupled with poor common sense.
While smoke and CO detectors are certainly a valued protection, they are even more necessary in today's inexperienced environment. Even the tight houses, probably increase their need.
"IMHO"
