Did you know? The MaineTracking Network just released new data about carbon monoxide (CO) poisonings and sources of exposure. Explore the data:
Carbon Monoxide | MaineTracking Network (mainepublichealth.gov)
Gov. Janet Mills revealed the state Center for Disease Control has received multiple reports of possible carbon monoxide poisoning since Monday’s storm.
The Mills administration released tips on generator safety as many Mainers continue to deal with extended power outages.
In the release, it’s noted that 16 reports of carbon monoxide poisoning have been made in eight separate incidents due to improper generator usage.
According to the release, the poisonings were not fatal, but resulted in visits to emergency departments in the state.
According to the CDC, a single portable gas-powered generator can produce as much deadly CO gas as 100 idling cars.
“If you are using a generator or another source of heat, please be extra cautious and know the steps you can take to protect your family. With rising reports of carbon monoxide poisoning, we want Maine people to take every necessary precaution,” Mills said.
Those experiencing CO poisoning may have symptoms similar to the flu, including:
Depending on a person’s exposure to CO, poisoning can cause coma or death in a matter of minutes.
When running a generator, remember to place it outside and at least 20 feet from windows or doors and follow all safety instructions provided for the equipment.
It’s suggested you place a battery-operated carbon monoxide detector near each sleeping area in your home. Those detectors should be checked regularly.
If you believe you have CO poisoning, leave your home, call 911 and do not go back inside the building until a fire department clears it.
16 cases of carbon monoxide poisonings reported since storm in Maine (wmtw.com)
Farmington, Maine –
“Staff and inmates at the Franklin County Detention Center were forced to evacuate the on Saturday afternoon after a corrections officer reported smelling fumes in the building…investigation officers found the boiler room full of smoke…boiler was turned off after carbon monoxide was detected.”
“Crews were called to the facility…due to a forklift malfunctioning inside the building, causing carbon monoxide levels to reach 500ppm…four people all got sick within a fifteen minute period…”
Three hospitalized after carbon monoxide leak at Portland food bank (wagmtv.com)
Comfort Suites – Freeport, Maine
“About 40 people were evacuated from the Comfort Suites in Freeport Tuesday morning after the gas-fired water heaters malfunctioned and caused a carbon monoxide leak. Firefighters arrived on scene around 9 a.m. A hotel maintenance worker noticed the leak Monday afternoon, but didn’t call 911.”
4 hospitalized after CO leak firefighters didn’t know about until next day in Freeport | WGME
“A new Fire Protection Research Foundation report highlights the nation’s enduring CO problem”
https://www.nxtbook.com/nxtbooks/nfpa/journal_2021spring/index.php?startid=20#/p/20
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