Merrimack 7th Grader Receives National Runner-Up Award for Carbon Monoxide Poster

The US Consumer Product Safety Commission conducted a nationwide poster contest with the theme of Carbon Monoxide Safety. The runner up out of 450 posters entered into the contest was Shrvani Balaji of Merrimack, New Hampshire. Shrvani is a 7th grade student from the Academy for Science and Design in Merrimack.

Shrvani was joined by her family, friends, and science teacher Mr. Myers Friday at the Statehouse as Governor John Lynch, State Fire Marshal Bill Degnan, President of the NH Association of Fire Chiefs Shawn Murray; David Burns from the US Consumer Products Safety Commission and other prevention partners in recognizing Shrvani for her award.

The event highlight was Shrvani presenting her poster to the 4th grade students of Stratham clearly explaining the hazards of carbon monoxide. She explained that carbon monoxide is the silent killer and pointed out on her poster the many sources of carbon monoxide around our homes. While creating the poster Shrvani stated, "this is a great way for me to raise awareness about the dangers that can invade our lives."

Chief Murray reminded everyone of the importance of the carbon monoxide detector noted on Shrvani's poster as they have save many residents in New Hampshire from death and injury. Murray encouraged everyone to install a carbon monoxide detector in their home to detect this colorless and odorless gas.

The state has formed a coalition to raise awareness to the hazards of carbon monoxide safety with partners from the State Fire Marshal's Office, Department of Health and Human Services, Department of Environmental Service, US Consumer Product Safety Commission, and private industry. The poster developed by Shrvani will be used in this collaborative carbon monoxide awareness campaign said Fire Marshal Degnan.

Shrvani Balaji poses next to her poster in Governor and Council Chambers	Fire Marshal Degnan presents certificate to Shrvani Balaji of Merrimack