Community mourns after 2 Will Rogers High School students found dead

 –

The cause of death for two 17-year-old students has been determined to be carbon monoxide poisoning, according to the Oklahoma state medical examiner.

Kadence Brown and Jacob Lara were both 17 years old, and their families say the two were friends and athletes. On Sunday night, their families received the awful news after Tulsa Police were called to a parking lot near 21st Street and Yale Avenue where the teens were seen unresponsive in a car.

Cause Of Death Revealed For 2 Will Rogers HS Teens (newson6.com)

 

Southampton Red Rock Plaza Workers Hospitalized after Carbon Monoxide Exposure Event

This morning Southampton Fire responded to Red Rock Plaza for a report of multiple patients exposed to epoxy fumes. Crews on scene found it was carbon monoxide exposure from a propane powered floor grinder and due to the number of patients called a MPI/MCI (multiple patient/casualty incident) and requested multiple ambulances from surrounding towns, and immediately triaged all patients. No casualties or injuries on scene, patients were transported to Baystate Medical Center for evaluation due to the time of exposure to carbon monoxide and symtpoms of CO poisoning. 3 of the patients were reported to have more severe symptoms. Thank you to Easthampton Fire Department/Chief Norris, Northampton Fire Rescue, Westfield Fire Department, Action Ambulance Service Inc. , and Southampton Police Department-Massachusetts/Chief Illingsworth for your assistance on the call. Thank you to the Easthampton public safety dispatchers for handling and getting all the resources needed to help with this call.
https://www.masslive.com/news/2023/10/multiple-people-exposed-to-carbon-monoxide-at-red-rock-plaza-in-southampton.html
https://www.westernmassnews.com/2023/10/25/several-people-hospitalized-after-carbon-monoxide-incident-southampton-plaza/

CO alarm in neighboring apartment alerts to 3 unconscious victims

Engine 811B responded this morning to a report of a carbon monoxide alarm sounding in an apartment. While investigating, our crew discovered that the CO was actually coming from an adjacent unit where unfortunately alarms were not sounding. Entry to that apartment was forced, where Engine 811B and Truck 814 found and rescued 3 unconscious people who were then transported to a local hospital and have since thankfully recovered.
Carbon monoxide is colorless, odorless, and deadly. Take a moment today to verify that you have carbon monoxide alarms in your home, and test them regularly to ensure they are functional. Maryland law actually requires that rental dwellings, hotels, and other types of occupancies have working carbon monoxide alarms.

Building evacuated at Mesa hotel following hazardous CO leak

Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Mesa, AZ
Multiple people treated for CO poisoning. No mention of installed CO detection.
“A hazmat team found readings of carbon monoxide on the second floor and the building was evacuated…Fire crews and hotel staff had not been able to find the source of the leak, but Barto said the issue was expected to be fixed within a week as the hotel changed the building’s pipelines.”
Building evacuated at Mesa hotel following hazardous material leak (azcentral.com)

13 hospitalized as Bronx apartment building fills with carbon monoxide, FDNY says

Bronx, NY –

“Firefighters were called to the Twin Park South East apartments…around 6:45 a.m. after a carbon monoxide alarm went off…Arriving first responders found 13 tenants in the nine-story building sickened by carbon monoxide fumes”

Bronx apartments fill with carbon monoxide; 13 to hospital: FDNY (nydailynews.com)

 

FAA says carbon monoxide to blame for fatal plane crash in Ringgold

Chatham, VA –

“Federal investigators say carbon monoxide was likely to blame for a fatal airplane crash last year in Pittsylvania County.

The Federal Aviation Administration this weekend released their final report on the February 1, 2022 crash east of Danville. It concludes the pilot was impaired due to carbon monoxide that came into the cockpit from undetected engine exhaust.

Investigator in Charge Lynn Spencer says the pilot, who was not identified in the report, shut down an engine after takeoff. There was no evidence that the engine had failed, which would have necessitated a shutdown.”

FAA says carbon monoxide to blame for fatal plane crash in Ringgold | News | chathamstartribune.com

NTSB: Pilot’s carbon monoxide impairment likely led to fatal Pittsylvania County plane crash (wdbj7.com)

 

Source of carbon monoxide released in Shawnee Mission teacher’s death

LENEXA, Kan. — Officials have released more information Thursday in a Shawnee Mission teacher’s death.

Shawnee Mission North teacher Kenna Kobin died last Friday from carbon monoxide poisoning. Her wife, Katie Kobin, is currently hospitalized.

When the two didn’t show up to work Friday, police responded to their home for a welfare check and firefighters found the home was filled with dangerous levels of carbon monoxide.

The Kobins did have a carbon monoxide detector that went off, but the couple couldn’t hear it.

Katie Kobin suffered damage to her heart from the carbon monoxide exposure. Family told FOX4 she’s fighting for her life, but she is awake and they remain optimistic.

Now, Lenexa police have confirmed the source of the carbon monoxide came from a car that was left running inside the garage.

“Carbon monoxide is considered the silent killer. It’s colorless; it’s odorless,” Butch Diekemper, an assistant chief of the Lenexa Fire Department, told FOX4 on Monday.

“I would encourage everybody to purchase a carbon monoxide detector, get it in your home immediately. Your family is worth that much.”

The EPA said half of all unintentional carbon monoxide deaths could be prevented by an alarm, but fewer than a third of all homes have them. A basic carbon monoxide detector will only cost about $15.

  • Have a carbon monoxide detector on every level where someone sleeps.
  • Any levels above 35 parts per million need immediate attention.
  • Never have your car running while the garage is closed – and pull it out when you start it.
  • Have all home appliances checked annually.
  • Symptoms include headache, dizziness and vomiting.

A 2019 report from the Consumer Product Safety Commission found that more than half of all deaths from carbon monoxide happen in the colder months, November through February.

Source of carbon monoxide released in Kansas teacher’s death (fox4kc.com)

 

Carbon Monoxide Fumes Lead to the Evacuation of Head Start Students & Teachers

Oct 4, 2023—Klamath Falls, Oregon. Yesterday, Oct. 3rd, just after 11 am, carbon monoxide (CO) alarms sounded inside at the Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatment Center (HOTC) of Southern Oregon and Klamath Falls Head Start (KFHS), located in the Town & Country Shopping Center, at 3810 South Sixth Street.

The source of the Carbon Monoxide (CO) fumes was found to have originated from a malfunctioning propane floor stripping machine located in a construction zone adjacent to the HOTC and KFHS suites.

The fire department found dangerously high levels of CO in the construction zone and lower levels in the neighboring suites. All students, teachers and personnel were safely evacuated from the exposed areas.

“They couldn’t have picked a better place to be surviving victims of carbon monoxide poisoning, than to be right next door to our Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatment Center” says Andrea Moore, the PA at the HOTC. “We are the only medical grade hyperbaric treatment center in The Basin available to provide this level of care needed for CO poisonings. And our service would not even have been available a few months ago.”

Dr. Monte Stewart, who owns Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatment Center (HOTC) of Southern Oregon immediately instructed his staff to offer free treatments to any student, teacher or contractor who had been exposed to carbon monoxide and showing symptoms of poisoning at this site. “These are our neighbors, and we are all in this together,” he said.

After the CO levels in the Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatment Center dropped, two neighboring workers were treated at the HOTC for CO poisoning symptoms (headaches, weakness and palpitations). Both patient’s symptoms were substantially improved by the end of their treatments.

Unfortunately, a lot of communities don’t have access to hyperbaric chamber technology or therapy. Since July 21st, 2023, Klamath Falls is blessed to have a medical grade, hard chamber, inside the Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatment Center of Southern Oregon (The Center). The Center is a great complement to the existing medical care already offered in the Klamath Falls Basin.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is an effective approved therapy for numerous illnesses and conditions. Some of the more recognizable illnesses that have been successfully treated by HBOT include: Radiation Tissue Damage, Diabetic Lower Extremity Wounds, and Non-healing wounds/Failed Skin Grafts and Flaps. The common denominator in these conditions is hypoxia or lack of oxygen to the tissues. HBOT reduces swelling while flooding the tissue with oxygen. The elevated pressure in the chamber increases the amount of oxygen in the blood and helps deliver oxygen to the oxygen-starved tissues.

For a detailed list of conditions treated by HBOT, visit: https://oregonhbot.com/conditions/

For more details about this incident and CO poisonings, continue reading below:

“I was removing a patient from the oxygen chamber when I heard the alarm,” said Eileen Lacy, Hyperbaric Oxygen Technician. “When I checked the panel in the compressor room, I saw it was the carbon monoxide alarm. Our physician assistant (PA), Andrea Moore immediately called Tim James, HOTC’s Safety Director in Medford, Oregon to troubleshoot.”

James initially recommended looking for potential sources of carbon monoxide and troubleshooting to see if the alarm cleared after running the chamber. Lacy opened up the front door to ventilate as the patient exited.

While trying to find the source of the alarm, contractors who were doing remodeling in the neighboring store front were told about the alarm and they asked “What are symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning?”

Moore quickly screened for symptoms as CO poisoning must be treated as medical emergency. Its main symptoms are headache, nausea, dizziness, vomiting, weakness, chest pain and confusion. More severe CO poisoning leads to loss of consciousness and death.

Tanner Hargett, an employee with Alpine Abatement Associates explained that four workers were doing asbestos abatement in Suite 220 using a propane-run machine they’d never used indoors in such a small space before.

“We stayed out of the building as much as possible and the next thing we know is a couple of fire trucks pull up and they go right to the Klamath Family Head Start (KFHS) which is two doors down from us in our strip mall,” Andrea Moore said. “First responders evacuated the children to an outdoor playground and parents were called to pick up their children…The carbon monoxide detectors at KFHS were going off…they were detecting some pretty high levels up to 50 parts per million in some of the classrooms and at that time I got really alarmed!”

Carbon monoxide poisoning is caused by exposure to a colorless, odorless gas known as carbon monoxide (CO). CO is found in combustion fumes such as vehicle exhaust, wood stoves, and other fuel burning appliances, smoke from a fire, nonelectric heaters, malfunctioning gas appliances, and faulty heating exhaust systems. CO, known as the silent killer, displaces the oxygen in the bloodstream when the CO is mixed in with normal air you breathe. Everyone is at risk for CO poisoning from these fumes, especially during the winter months when there is poor ventilation indoors.

Moore warned the restaurant owners to the right of HOTC saying, “Hey, we’re having trouble in the mall with carbon monoxide so make sure your fans are running and open the back door to ventilate the place.”

The fire fighter medics checked out the contractors and found several who had high blood pressures and were experiencing headaches. Carbon monoxide levels at the work site were 127 parts per million, which is very, very dangerous.

Tanner Hargett, a contractor who was briefly exposed to the fumes, explained, “We have four floor stripping machines, and today, thanks to alarms in the neighboring school and HOTC, we discovered that one machine, which we’d trailered down from Salem, Oregon, didn’t have a carbon monoxide detector on it. I had to leave to run some errands so I was only exposed for about 10 minutes, unlike the other guys working at the site. When the machine malfunctioned, the site ventilation setup we had in place simply wasn’t adequate to keep us safe.”

Klamath County Fire Department #1 tagged the faulty machine, intended for outdoor use only, for immediate removal from the job site.

As the fire department continued evaluating employees and students for CO poisoning, Andrea Moore, the physician assistant at HOTC, assisted and spoke with the EMTs. Four workers were exposed to high CO levels. After the CO levels in the Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatment Center dropped, one worker with headache and weakness and another worker with severe headache, palpitations and weakness were treated in the state-of-the-art hyperbaric oxygen chamber.

“All those who were exposed to CO at the Klamath Fall’s Town & Country Shopping Center were treated free-of-charge,” says Dr. Monte Stewart.

Although many people with CO poisoning can be revived without hyperbaric oxygen therapy, long-term damage from CO poisoning can include harm to the central nervous system and the cardiovascular system. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy research has shown that it can treat many conditions that involve oxygen-starved tissues. Several studies have shown that under certain conditions, hyperbaric oxygen therapy can cut the risk for brain injury and nerve damage. And relief of minor symptoms is more immediate.

Through this unexpected incident, the new Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatment Center of Southern Oregon in Klamath Falls had the privilege of being able to immediately provide the best recommended treatment of choice for carbon monoxide poisoning.

Yesterday was an important reminder to check and make sure we all having working CO detectors in our homes and work places.

https://oregonhbot.com/carbon-monoxide-fumes-lead-to-the-evacuation-of-head-start-students-teachers/

Kindler Hotel in downtown Lincoln evacuated due to carbon monoxide leak

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – Several Lincoln Fire & Rescue crews responded to a gas leak at the Kindler Hotel on Tuesday.

Crews were sent to the hotel near 11th and P streets around 3:20 p.m. on a fire alarm call.

LFR Battalion Chief Jeremy Gegg said it turned out to be a gas leak, and a couple of rooms had high levels of carbon monoxide.

People were evacuated, and firefighters went through the hotel and the adjacent Misty’s Steakhouse to find the source of the gas leak.

Eventually, crews found that two water heaters were malfunctioning, and they started ventilating the hotel.

Gegg said the carbon monoxide level was as high as 70 parts per million, which is dangerously high.

He said it’s a good reminder that as we go into the cooler months, it’s important to check your appliances.

“Really, the best thing to do is just work with a heating and air contractor to have them thoroughly check your furnace before the heating season,” Gegg said.

And if you think something is off, always call your local fire department.

“Even if you feel fine and you might think that the carbon monoxide detector is just malfunctioning, there is definitely a likelihood that it’s doing its job,” Gegg said.

Kindler Hotel in downtown Lincoln evacuated due to carbon monoxide leak (klkntv.com)

 

Brighton family barely survives carbon monoxide poisoning, warns others to buy detectors

Brighton, MI –
“I just knew I had to someone call 911. So, I actually used our Alexa in the bedroom to call, and then was able to grab a phone off the bed by crawling over to it,” she recalled.
Unbeknownst to her and her family at the time, they were being poisoned by carbon monoxide and it was coming from their pool’s heater.”
Family barely survives carbon monoxide poisoning, warns others to buy detectors (wxyz.com)

Carbon monoxide at Madison home traced to smoldering wall

MADISON, Wis. — The second time was the charm for first responders searching for the cause of elevated carbon monoxide readings at a multi-unit home in Madison early Monday morning.

Firefighters responded to a report of a carbon monoxide alarm sounding at the home in the 900 block of East Johnson Street around 2 a.m. A resident told firefighters the alarm had been sounding for roughly two hours; another resident reported mild symptoms possibly indicating carbon monoxide exposure, according to a Madison Fire Department incident report.

Firefighters traced the highest concentration of carbon monoxide to a rear living area but were unable to identify a source after ruling out nearby vehicles, appliances and a fire pit.

After ventilating the building, firefighters told the residents to call 911 if the alarm sounded again — which it did around an hour and 45 minutes after the first call. One of the occupants reported a wall near the elevated carbon monoxide levels was warm to the touch.

When firefighters returned, they used a thermal imaging camera to identify heat signatures on the wall, the report said. After removing the siding from the outside of the wall, they found smoldering insulation and charred studs near degraded electrical conduits.

MG&E shut off power to the building and property management was alerted to the issue.

https://www.channel3000.com/news/carbon-monoxide-at-madison-home-traced-to-smoldering-wall-fire-department-says/article_f2662e50-5696-11ee-abf3-6f19ab781f1a.html

Mother and 2 sons found dead inside camper

MCPHERSON COUNTY, Kan. (KWCH) – Family said a Wichita area man is grieving after his pregnant wife and two of his sons died from what the family said was carbon monoxide poisoning. Now, community members are stepping up to help Jason Richey and his surviving 3-year-old son. Felicia Richey and her two older sons, Tison and Bentley, were found dead Saturday inside a camper near the Inman Motocross track.

https://www.kwch.com/2023/09/17/community-steps-up-family-after-mother-2-sons-found-dead-inside-camper/

 

Carbon monoxide exposure at Vermont school prompts class cancellation, hospitalizations

Coventry, VT –

“The affected students and adult had been in a classroom closest to an outside construction site on the school property. While heavy machinery was running outside, air conditioning was running inside the building, pulling outside air in…It’s likely that the carbon monoxide came from the operation of the heavy equipment.”

 

Carbon monoxide exposure at Vermont school prompts class cancellation, hospitalizations | Fox News

 

Santa Cruz hotel guests suffer carbon monoxide poisoning in leak

Aqua Pacific Inn – Santa Cruz, CA

SANTA CRUZ — A local hotel’s guests were rushed to an area hospital late Saturday night for treatment of carbon monoxide poisoning, authorities said.

Responding to a report of occupants in medical distress shortly after 11 p.m. at the Ocean Street business, Santa Cruz firefighters investigated what they quickly believed was a gas leak after encountering two individuals suffering acute carbon monoxide poisoning, according to a department release.

With the help of gas monitoring equipment, firefighters discovered carbon monoxide had been leaking into an unoccupied hotel mechanical room and spreading to the building’s east wing. Firefighters woke up several hotel guests, evacuated 14 rooms and temporarily displaced 25 people. Varying levels of carbon monoxide were present in the affected rooms, according to the agency.

The leak’s source was traced to a faulty ventilation system attached to a bank of hot water heaters. Firefighters ventilated the affected areas before returning the building over to its owner.

Santa Cruz hotel guests suffer carbon monoxide poisoning in leak – Santa Cruz Sentinel

 

So That Others Will Know: Patricia & David Ivie’s Story

Story #2 in our CO Experience Project series

Patricia and David Ivie (photo courtesy of Buck Ivie)

On August 23, 2017, they left their home near Fort Worth and traveled to the Texas panhandle region for a family event. They checked into a Best Western in the town of Perryton and settled into Room 217, likely anticipating a normal, routine overnight hotel stay. However, this hotel stay would be far from normal or routine – and, within four months, their stay would cost both of them their lives…

Read the Ivies’ story here

Multiple people poisoned by CO on a pontoon/houseboat

Carbon Monoxide Incident
Green River Lake
9-3-2023
Call Received 0837
On Scene 0850
Control 0855
Leaving Scene 0931
Campbellsville Fire-Rescue was dispatched to a report of a carbon monoxide incident on a house boat on Green River Lake in a remote area. Upon arrival, firefighters found a pontoon boat inbound to the state marina with 9 patients on board with all experiencing carbon monoxide symptoms. 9 patients were triaged by emergency personnel. 2 patients was transported via medic unit and 7 patients was transported to TRH via personal vehicles with non-life threating injuries. This family was able to recognize the symptoms of CO poisoning and called 911 immediately. Firefighters conducted air monitoring and found elevated levels of carbon monoxide in the houseboat.
With cooler nights approaching we want to remind everyone about carbon monoxide safety. You can’t see it, taste it or smell it, but low levels of carbon monoxide can make you sick, and high levels can kill you. Carbon monoxide (CO) is an invisible, odorless gas that can escape from any fuel-burning appliance, such as gas furnaces, generators, water heaters, stoves, fireplaces, wood stoves, chimneys or space heaters. It can also be created by an automobile idling in a closed or attached garage. Carbon monoxide incidents can even happen in houseboats. All homes with fuel burning appliances need a working CO alarm. As a reminder, the symptoms of CO poisoning are dizziness, nausea, fatigue, and flu-like symptoms.
Firefighters Responding:5
Responding Apparatus: Rescue 1, Squad 1, Marine 1, Medic 215 and Chief
Assisting Agencies:
Campbellsville Taylor County 911 Center
Campbellsville Taylor County EMS

CO Alarm UL 2034 Standard Updated to Support Small Businesses in Stopping Tragedies

https://ulse.org/news/lifesaving-alternative-will-support-hotels-restaurants-warning-carbon-monoxide

  • Press Release

August 23, 2023

Lifesaving Alternative Will Support Hotels, Restaurants in Warning of Carbon Monoxide


CO Alarm Standard Updated to Support Small Businesses in Stopping Tragedies

Washington, D.C. (August 23, 2023) – Today, UL Standards & Engagement published its updated standard for carbon monoxide alarms — UL 2034, Single and Multiple Station Carbon Monoxide Alarms — expanding coverage to non-dwelling units, namely motels, restaurants, and other indoor locations that do not have more sophisticated detection systems installed. The change also aligns with the 2024 International Fire Code revision that requires carbon monoxide detection for commercial occupancies.

“Detection means prevention of senseless tragedies,” said Dr. David Steel, executive director of ULSE. “So many lives can be saved if there are alarms to make people aware of the presence of this deadly gas. And an alarm is often the only chance at awareness.”

An odorless and colorless threat, carbon monoxide poisoning kills at least 420 people and sends more than 100,000 to the emergency department in the U.S. each year. The numbers may be higher, as symptoms — which include headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and confusion — are easily misdiagnosed.

Carbon monoxide is found in fumes produced by furnaces, kerosene heaters, vehicles in enclosed spaces, stoves and gas ranges, portable generators, pool heaters, and more. When these fumes occur, an alarm is often the first, and sometimes only, indication of a problem. In recent years, carbon monoxide poisonings have occurred in restaurants, daycare centers, hotels and vacation rentals. Only 14 states require carbon monoxide detectors in hotels.

ULSE welcomes proposals to update or develop new standards. The change to UL 2034 was proposed by Kris Hauschildt, founder of the Jenkins Foundation, which she established after her parents, Daryl and Shirley Jenkins, lost their lives to carbon monoxide poisoning in a hotel room in Boone, N.C.

Only seven weeks after the death of the Jenkins, 11-year-old Jeffrey Williams stayed in the same room and succumbed to carbon monoxide poisoning. The hotel room did not have a carbon monoxide alarm installed and investigation into the Jenkins’ deaths did not immediately suspect carbon monoxide poisoning, leading to another tragedy.

“Carbon monoxide detection is critical to protecting lives,” said Hauschildt. “Not one life should be lost when the solution is this simple.”

Hauschildt had been involved in the ULSE standards process before, but this update is the first proposal she put forward. She wanted to expand usage of more affordable alarms across small businesses, where governing laws and codes allow them. The revision builds on changes made last year to expand use in commercial vehicles, in response to request by American Trucking Associations’ Technology & Maintenance Council. Last year’s update was critical for truck drivers, particularly those who rest or sleep in their cabs while the engine idles.

The newly updated standard is the product of a consensus process, initiated by Hauschildt, that includes discussion and voting by ULSE’s technical committee. For UL 2034, the committee is made up of 20 members, including manufacturers in the home products space, consumer nonprofits, trade associations, and government agencies, including CPSC (though CPSC is a non-voting member).

“With several options available to detect carbon monoxide, we are removing barriers to doing the right thing. We encourage every establishment to ensure they have a carbon monoxide alarm or detection system. I want to thank Kris and the technical committee for spearheading change that makes it easier to do so,” concluded Dr. Steel.

The full text of UL 2034 can be viewed for free here.

About UL Standards & Engagement

UL Standards & Engagement is a nonprofit organization that translates safety science into action through standards development, partnerships and advocacy. Since 1903, we have developed nearly 1,700 standards and guidance documents for products ranging from fire doors to autonomous vehicles. ULSE enables innovation and grows trust by convening experts and informing policymakers and regulators as we work toward a safer, more secure and sustainable future. Visit ulse.org for more information.

 

60 students evaluated, dorm evacuated after gas leak at Catawba College, officials say

North Carolina –
“…the leak was identified after some residents of Barger-Zartman Residence Hall said they were experiencing symptoms aligned with increasing levels of carbon (monoxide). The leak was later confirmed in the boiler room of the building.”

All-clear after gas leak reported at Catawba College | wcnc.com

 

Ann Arbor Hotel Cited in Carbon Monoxide Death of Maintenance Worker

Followup on the death of hotel maintenance worker last November at the Victory Inn & Suites in Ann Arbor, Michigan –
“This death was 100% preventable.”
“A willful designation was used for two of the fatality-related violations due to the employer’s history of noncompliance with state and municipal fire, boiler and building codes. The employer’s knowledge of the worker’s inexperience with boiler-type heating systems also shows the employer’s plain indifference to employee health and safety and MIOSHA rules.”
Original story here:
https://localtoday.news/…/police-identify-a-man-who…

Five people in Brunswick hospitalized following CO incident at Walmart

New York –
👍 “…a carbon monoxide alarm went off at the store…”
👎 “The department was called to the Walmart for the same situation a month ago, according to Chief Willson…‘What they’re doing is renovating the store at this time.’ said Fire Chief Wilson. ‘They’re using machinery without proper ventilation. Therefore, that’s where the carbon monoxide came from.’”

Five people in Brunswick hospitalized following carbon monoxide incident – WNYT.com NewsChannel 13

Why employers need to promote carbon monoxide awareness

“While the message about carbon monoxide awareness has often targeted the public, workplaces such as campgrounds, tour operators, and festival event organizers hold a crucial role in safeguarding individuals against the dangers of this silent killer.”

Why employers need to promote carbon monoxide awareness | Canadian Occupational Safety (thesafetymag.com)

Family files wrongful death lawsuit for Point Roberts couple who died from CO poisoning

Point Roberts, WA –

“The children of Gail Amundsen and Murray Church have filed a lawsuit against Whatcom County and several companies alleging negligence resulting in the wrongful deaths of the couple due to carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.”

Family files wrongful death lawsuit for Point Roberts couple who died from CO poisoning | The Northern Light

Mother, son die by carbon monoxide poisoning

Missouri –
“The generator was in an enclosed area…a breezeway between the garage and the home and the house, but it was an enclosed breezeway. The generator was in that breezeway, which allowed the carbon monoxide fumes to go into the residence…it’s crucial to never use a generator inside your home, basement, or garage or less than 20 feet from any window, door, or vent.”

Mother, son die by carbon monoxide poisoning – Daily Journal Online

 

Marines found dead at NC gas station died of carbon monoxide poisoning, officials say

“Three U.S. Marines found unresponsive in a car at a North Carolina gas station died of carbon monoxide poisoning, the local sheriff’s office said Wednesday.

Deputies from the Pender County Sheriff’s Office found the three men Sunday morning in a privately owned Lexus sedan parked outside a Speedway gas station in the coastal community of Hampstead. Autopsies performed Wednesday by the North Carolina medical examiner’s office determined that all three deaths were the result of carbon monoxide poisoning, according to the sheriff’s office.”

 

https://www.13newsnow.com/article/news/national/military-news/marines-found-dead-north-carolina-gas-station-carbon-monoxide-poisoning/291-17a64fa4-3378-4d63-a936-41f00a423497

 

Worker dies from carbon monoxide poisoning in home under construction

Canada –

Source was a gas-powered pump being used inside the house

The Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) received an emergency call just after 8 p.m. on Wednesday, prompting their immediate response to the construction site. Upon entering the premises, paramedics’ carbon monoxide detectors sounded the alarm, indicating dangerous levels of 2,000 parts per million of the toxic gas inside the house.

Inside the home, the paramedics discovered an unresponsive worker who was being assisted by two bystanders providing medical care. Tragically, the worker could not be saved. Two of the responding paramedics and one of the bystanders were also affected by the toxic gas and required medical treatment.

In a press release, city officials revealed the cause of the carbon monoxide build-up was a gas-powered pump that was operational inside the house.

A spokesperson for the province tells CTV News Winnipeg “a stop-work order has been issued on the gas-powered equipment and WSH is continuing to follow up.”

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas, making it extremely difficult to detect without specialized equipment like carbon monoxide detectors. It is often referred to as the “silent killer” because exposure to high levels of this gas can lead to serious health issues and even fatalities. Common symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include headaches, nausea, dizziness, confusion, vision and hearing impairment, and shortness of breath.

The construction company involved in the incident, Artista Homes, was approached for comment by CTV News Winnipeg, but did not receive a response.

In the wake of this tragedy, authorities are urging all residents and businesses to take the necessary precautions to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. It is recommended to install carbon monoxide alarms on every floor of a building, especially in homes and workplaces where gas-powered equipment is utilized.

Worker dies from carbon monoxide poisoning in home under construction | Canadian Occupational Safety (thesafetymag.com)

Over 500 evacuated from Boston hotel after CO detected

Doubletree by Hilton
Boston, MA –
“The Boston Fire Department responded to a call from the hotel around 10 p.m. that its carbon monoxide alarm was going off…fire officials detected “high levels” of carbon monoxide throughout the hotel when they arrived, necessitating a full evacuation…(Fire Dept spokesperson) said he did not know whether the underlying cause of the leak was fixed permanently.”
Over 500 evacuated from Boston hotel after CO detected

Carbon monoxide poisons 7 people at Ocala business

Florida –
“Firefighters determined a faulty propane-powered floor cleaner was the source of the gas. When turned on, the machine emitted carbon monoxide levels at 1400 parts per million. The U.S. National Ambient Air Quality Standards for outdoor air is 9 parts per million. Average homes are between 0.5 and 5 parts per million.”

Carbon monoxide poisons 7 people at Ocala business (wcjb.com)

 

Check Your Health- Warning Boaters About Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

In many of these cases of poisoning, Lindell Weaver, MD, Intermountain Healthcare’s medical director of the Hyperbaric Medicine Center at Intermountain Medical Center and LDS Hospital said, “they occurred near the back of the boat, close to the exhaust where children went from from normal to serious in minutes!”

Check Your Health- Warning Boaters About Carbon Monoxide Poisoning | KUTV

Staff, prisoners evacuated after carbon monoxide leak at USP Coleman

No information on source of CO or if CO detection is installed.

Sumter County, FL –

“Over 500 people, including staff members and prisoners were evacuated at USP Coleman due to a carbon monoxide leak Sunday morning, Sumter County emergency officials said.

According to Sumter County’s emergency management director, 13 people had to seek treatment and 6 went to the hospital…”

Staff evacuated after USP Coleman carbon monoxide leak (mynews13.com)

 

6 children hospitalized, 2 critical, due to CO poisoning at apartment complex in Wilmington

Wilmington, DE –
👍“At 12:29 p.m. the Wilmington Fire Department was alerted of a carbon monoxide alarm…”
👎 “Responding units found carbon monoxide readings over 500 parts per million (ppm) in the structure…cause of the carbon monoxide was found to be a gas-powered pressure washer being operated in the basement.”

6 children hospitalized for CO poisoning at Wilmington apartment – NBC10 Philadelphia (nbcphiladelphia.com)

CO exposure at Motel 6 in Cedar Rapids, IA

No mention of installed CO detection.

Cedar Rapids Fire Department 

CRFD and CRPD Respond to Possible Carbon Monoxide Leaks at Motel 6 on SW side –
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(July 08, 2023 – 3:10p.m.)
Cedar Rapids, IA –
Cedar Rapids Police and Cedar Rapids Firefighters responded to multiple calls for service regarding potential gas or vapor exposure at Motel 6 – 616 33rd Ave SW on Saturday. The first call came at 10:14a.m., the second at 1:44p.m.
The first call ended when utility crews indicated they had secured what they believed to be the source of the exposure and rectified the issue. A few hours later, guests at the hotel began complaining of symptoms in-line with gas exposure and the fire department was called again to respond. At this point, firefighters evacuated the building and began a room-by-room search ensuring all residents were safely moved. Other fire crews searched for the source of the leak and ventilated the building. Utility crews – at the time of the posting – are working to locate the source of the exposure and mitigate the issue. At this time, it is not known now how long guests will be displaced.
One patient was evaluated by Area Ambulance crews but did not require further treatment or transport to medical care. No firefighter injuries are reported in this event.
The cause of the exposure is still under investigation.
“A clogged lint trap was discovered in a dryer in the building’s laundry room, which was blocking carbon monoxide produced by the machine from leaving through the exhaust pipe and instead was leaking into the laundry room.”

Residents of home safe from CO leak thanks to alarms installed by local fire dept

Somerset, MA –

Somerset Fire Dept

A feel good success story from one of our programs and the importance of properly working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms (long post, but please read it all if you have time)…
On Friday night our crews were dispatched to a home in the area of Lafayette Street for smoke/carbon monoxide alarms sounding. They were met by an elderly resident who said she went to bed and was awoken by the alarms. Crews entered the residence with our explosive gas meter (this meter detects levels of oxygen, explosive gas, carbon monoxide, hydrogen cyanide and hydrogen sulfide). They immediately got readings of carbon monoxide and lowered levels of oxygen in the home. Crews backed out and donned SCBA’s. Readings of carbon monoxide in the home were around 600 parts per million (it should be 0, acceptable levels are below 9 parts per million in a home). Carbon monoxide is a poisonous, order less, colorless byproduct of combustion. After a thorough investigation, it was found that the resident mistakenly left her car running in a closed garage, likely for at least 4 hours. Liberty utilities was called to the scene as a precaution, extra firefighters were called into the station due to extensive time on scene, and the home was vented with a battery powered ppv fan until there were 0 parts per million of carbon monoxide in the home. The resident was transported by our rescue to a local hospital because of slight confusion and having detectable levels of carbon monoxide in there system. If the resident had not been alerted by the properly working smoke/carbon monoxide alarms they would have passed away within hours (likely an hour).
We have a program called “Somerset Cares”. In this program we go out to Somerset homes to do safety assessments and install smoke/carbon monoxide alarms. We recently went to this home for the “Somerset Cares” program and installed the smoke/carbon monoxide alarms that saved the residents life! A testament to the success in one of the many programs we offer and the importance of properly working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms!

CO danger on boats: In memory of Afton Taylor

“To honor Afton, please wear a life jacket when boating and swimming around boats to increase your chances of surviving carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. Boaters should use a marine CO detector, seat children in the forward-most seating on a boat, avoid idling and exposure to emissions from other boats, and maintain fresh air circulation at all times.”

May be an image of 2 people, child and text

Generator: 3 children among 6 hospitalized after deadly apartment CO leak

Houston, TX –

“…a power generator was operating overnight inside one of the units. The manager of the apartment complex told ABC13’s Charly Edsitty that the power was out at the complex due to Wednesday’s storms…He also said the units do not have carbon monoxide detectors. They are not required because all of the stoves are electric at the complex.”

Carbon monoxide poisoning death: Children among several hospitalized after deadly leak at Vintage Apartments, firefighters say – ABC13 Houston

 

Medical report: Comparison of four low-level CO alarms suitable for home use or when traveling

ABSTRACT

Hampson NB, Holm JR.

Comparison of four low-level carbon monoxide alarms suitable for home use
or when traveling. Undersea Hyperb Med. 2022 Third Quarter; 49(3):307-313.

Introduction/Background: Interest in carbon monoxide (CO) alarms that are more sensitive than is
required for standard residential CO alarms is growing, as reflected by increased marketing of “low-level” alarms capable of measuring CO levels as low as 10 PPM. At the same time, publicity surrounding
CO poisoning events among travelers in lodging facilities has stimulated interest in travel CO alarms.
We sought to evaluate four low-level alarms that could be used in the home and especially when
traveling.

Materials/Methods: Two each of four brands of low-level alarms (CO Experts, Forensics, Kidde, and
Sensorcon) were acquired by retail purchase and tested. The eight alarms were simultaneously
exposed in an environment with a slowly increasing level of CO from indoor burning of charcoal
briquets. CO levels displayed on the alarms were recorded once per minute. Activation of preset alerts
on the alarms were noted. Finally, alarms were compared for ease of use and features available.
Results: All brands of alarms measured CO similarly over the range from 10-120 PPM. All alarms
performed as claimed by their manufacturers, both regarding range of CO reported and preset alert
activation. Each alerted at CO levels below that required by the Underwriters Laboratories 2034
Standard.

Summary/Conclusions: Since all low-level CO alarms tested measured CO similarly, consumers seeking
a low-level CO alarm for use while traveling should base their decision on features desired and price.
There are definite differences between the alarms tested, in terms of features, expected durability,
ease of operation and price.

Full article available here:

UHM Journal 49-3 print.indd (neilhampson.com)

Two Americans Found Dead Inside Luxury Mexican Hotel Room

Hyatt Hotel Rancho Pescadero in El Pescadero in the state of Baja California Sur –

“In a statement Wednesday, the local attorney general’s office said both had died from “intoxication by substance to be determined.” Earlier reports of the deaths suggested more specifically that gas inhalation was suspected.”

Two Americans Found Dead Inside Luxury Mexican Hotel Room (yahoo.com)

“A Hyatt spokesperson did not immediately respond to questions about whether rooms at Rancho Pescadero, which start at more than $600 a night, are equipped with carbon monoxide detectors.”

Two Americans found dead in luxury hotel room in Mexico – Los Angeles Times (latimes.com)

Current and former employees at a luxury hotel in Mexico where two Americans were found dead said managers ignored signs of a possible gas leak and disabled carbon monoxide detectors so alarms would not disturb guests.

Mexican resort where 2 Californians died ignored gas leaks, workers say – Los Angeles Times (latimes.com)

“’They knew there were problems with a gas leak,’ Ricardo Carbajal, the former night manager of Rancho Pescadero, told The Los Angeles Times.

Mr Carbajal, who stopped working at the luxury hotel in March, said carbon monoxide detectors went off frequently over a period of three months last year before hotel managers disabled the alarms due to noise complaints.”

https://news.yahoo.com/mexico-hotel-where-us-couple-144419764.html?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAHvryhnD21sSU0Dft0i1-71TxlTqmK8fKZbR-GLnlIGDxAxfOkzyvaAtFC5P_LhSQdO0YRkOB1pOxJfGLql-Cv5Qw7zjKFZG9qneAaKwZVdtUGHthw0c16slEOE8e1zzQxVpXugV4l4_czvemhY8foh_5ozyqm9V45dnYfZmJ-K7

 

USACE Podcast: Remembering Andy Free and preventing boating deaths from carbon monoxide

Tulsa District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers 

CORPSTRUCTION – Remembering Andy Free and preventing deaths from carbon monoxide
Over the Memorial Day weekend, we sat down with Cassi Free to talk about her son Andy, who fell out of the family boat and drowned after a day of wakeboarding and boating on Lake Eufaula on June 9, 2020.
When her two other sons were sent to the hospital that same day, the family discovered they were exposed to high levels of carbon monoxide while out on the water. Tests revealed that Andy, who was nine years old, had been exposed to high levels of carbon monoxide.
Cassi was kind enough to sit down and share her experience and talk about the family’s efforts to raise awareness of carbon monoxide while boating.
Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that is a byproduct of burning fuel. If a flame or combustion is present, carbon monoxide is being produced. Carbon monoxide displaces oxygen in the blood depriving the heart, brain, and other vital organs of oxygen. It can kill within minutes.
Initial carbon monoxide toxicity symptoms often mirror fatigue typical of being out in the sun, and since it’s lighter than air, it can remain in an area for long periods, especially in highly trafficked areas.
Be aware of the risks of exposure. Take frequent breaks away from the lake, and if you observe lethargy or confusion in others, seek medical attention.
You can listen to the podcast on DVIDS, Apple Podcast or Spotify.

‘So preventable’: Mom raises awareness after son’s death from carbon monoxide

Omaha, NE –

“You worry about things like a car accident. You know, drinking and driving, something like that. You don’t think about your child going to their friend’s house and dying of carbon monoxide poisoning…”

Jodi Semonell says her son 19-year-old Cole Oban was at a friend, Thomas Coleman’s house, when both boys died along with Thomas’ dad David Coleman and their family dog.

‘So preventable’: Mom raises awareness after son’s death from carbon monoxide (ketv.com)

 

General Aviation: Delay in vital test led to distress for family of crash victims

“A final ATSB report on the crash of the Beaver floatplane revealed how several pre-existing cracks in the aircraft engine’s exhaust collector ring released exhaust gas into the engine/accessory bay. This then likely entered the cabin through holes in the main firewall where three bolts were missing.”

Delay in vital test led to distress for family of crash victims – Australian Aviation

ESCO Podcast: The sad reality of CO poisoning – Kris Hauschildt, Jenkins Foundation

S01 E13 – The sad reality of CO poisoning-Kris Hauschildt of The Jenkins Foundation

Did You Know?-The ESCO HVAC Podcast by ESCO Institute

We often assume our health and safety is of utmost concern from hotels and commercial buildings while we are traveling. Right? Take a moment to join Kris and I as we relive her terrifying reality of Carbon Monoxide and the lack of monitoring in commercial spaces.

Apr 14 2023

Did You Know?-The ESCO HVAC Podcast – The sad reality of CO poisoning-Kris Hauschildt of The Jenkins Foundation | RSS.com

 

 

British carbon monoxide tragedy couple ‘had married two weeks before analyst died and his yoga teacher wife was left fighting for life during Majorca honeymoon’

Vacation rental in Spain –
“Initial local reports pointed to the cause being a faulty gas-powered fridge…sources said they were investigating the possibility deadly carbon monoxide gas had been seeping out all night while the couple slept in the main bedroom…”
Pictured – British ‘carbon monoxide’ tragedy couple, who married two weeks before analyst died (dailymail.co.uk)
Sad update on this story…
“Mary Somerville, 39, was found unconscious alongside her husband, Jaime Carsi, 40, in a villa in Majorca on May 6 due to a carbon monoxide leak. The leak is believed to have been caused by a broken fridge in their holiday accommodation.”
Newlywed dies just two months after carbon monoxide leak killed her husband | UK | News | Express.co.uk

CPSC: How to Protect Your Family from CO Poisoning and Other Post-Storm Dangers this Hurricane Season

Guam: If you lose power due to #Mawar and are using a portable generator, make sure it is outdoors – at least 20ft away from your home. One portable generator can produce as much carbon monoxide as hundreds of cars.
Carbon monoxide is a deadly gas you can’t see or smell and it can kill a family in minutes. Never use your portable generator indoors. Never use your generator in your garage, even with the door open.
How to Protect Your Family from CO Poisoning and Other Post-Storm Dangers this Hurricane Season | CPSC.gov

Carbon monoxide deaths are climbing, putting families in peril: ‘My son is lucky to be alive’

Utah –
Excellent article on the long term physical effects of CO exposure centered around this recent poisoning incident in Utah.
“…(he) had gotten very sick over the course of the day, then woke up in the middle of the night with severe thirst. When he tried to get out of bed, his entire left side had gone completely numb…
‘Brenden fell and hit his head on a dresser, then tumbled down the stairs to the bathroom, and that’s where they found him…’
The source of the fumes was a new heater for the outdoor swimming pool, which had just been hooked up and was kept in the garage below the room where (he) was living.”
Carbon monoxide deaths are climbing, putting families in peril: ‘My son is lucky to be alive’ – WFIN Local News

Cobble Hill tenants say calls about high carbon monoxide levels have gone unanswered

New York –
According to the news video, one tenant’s CO alarm registered CO levels of over 900ppm in their apartment.
“One neighbor showed News 12 that soot from a chimney outside his apartment leaked through his electrical outlet and a crack in his ceiling. They also say this is now the third time they’ve called the fire department and that their calls to building management have gone unanswered.”

Cobble Hill tenants say calls about high carbon monoxide levels have gone unanswered (news12.com)

 

More than 2 dozen employees hospitalized after exposure to chemical at KCK food processing plant

Kansas City, KS –
“…roughly 26 employees were exposed to carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide used to preserve meat products…’Some of the employees were having difficulty breathing, and some were falling unconscious…’
Containers used to store the gasses reportedly leaked and caused the exposure.”

Employees hospitalized after exposure to chemical at KCK food processing plant (kshb.com)

 

Man dies after being trapped inside structure with a gas-powered generator

PLACER COUNTY, CA —

“A family in Placer County is mourning the loss of Jason Cassem, a dedicated father of two.

Cassem died of carbon monoxide poisoning at his home in Drum Forebay after a snowbank collapsed, trapping him inside a structure with a gas-powered generator.”

https://www.abc10.com/article/news/local/placer-county-family-mourning-father-carbon-monoxide-poisoning/103-5b391a94-e1ce-4c89-8f21-e53a2eb4606b

Sheriff: Juneau County cabin death likely caused by carbon monoxide

Madison, WI –

“According to Juneau County Sheriff’s Office’s initial statement, deputies went to the cabin, in Armenia Township, around 5 p.m. on Monday, March 27, after getting two calls asking them to check on the individuals there. Upon arrival, they discovered two people, neither of whom appeared to be breathing.”

Sheriff: Juneau County cabin death likely caused by carbon monoxide (wsaw.com)

 

33 Female BAPS Temple “Volunteers” Evacuated From Home Being Used As Rooming House After Carbon Monoxide Incident

Robbinsville, NJ –

“…EMS workers responded to 93 North Main Street in Windsor on March 15, 2023 for a person believed to be having a stroke. When the ambulance crew entered the structure “A40 single gas CO monitor began to alarm.” Warning the ambulance crew of carbon monoxide present.”

33 Female BAPS Temple “Volunteers” Evacuated From Home Being Used As Rooming House After Carbon Monoxide Incident – MidJersey.News

New CPSC Report Shows Upward Trend in Carbon Monoxide (CO) Fatalities

“For 2019, there were an estimated 250 consumer product-related CO deaths in the United States – greater than any other year in the report. Engine-Driven Tools (EDTs), including generators, were associated with the largest percentage of non-fire CO poisoning deaths for 2019. The report shows that since 2009, portable generators alone have been associated with an estimated 765 non-fire CO poisoning deaths, accounting for 40 percent of all CO deaths related to consumer products under CPSC’s jurisdiction.”

New CPSC Report Shows Upward Trend in Carbon Monoxide (CO) Fatalities | CPSC.gov

What To Know To Stay Safe From Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

This is the first story in the series “Air We Can’t Grasp: The Insidious Matter of Carbon Monoxide.”

“During the winter, the two-family house I share with my mother sometimes gets so cold that I need a portable heater to stay warm. These days I use an electrical one. When I was a child, my family would turn the oven on to use it as a source of heat.

Now I’m aware that using a gas oven to keep warm can put tenants at risk for carbon monoxide. That made me wonder, how many people know the risks they face in their own homes from CO poisoning?”

What To Know To Stay Safe From Carbon Monoxide Poisoning – Futuro HinojosaFuturo Hinojosa (futuroinvestigates.org)

Family finds owl stuck in chimney as it sets off carbon monoxide alarm

“An Ohio family was forced to evacuate their home this month after high levels of carbon monoxide were detected due to a creature being trapped in their chimney.

The culprit, an owl, had been stuck inside the structure which caused a carbon monoxide leak and activated an alarm.”

Ohio family finds owl stuck in chimney as it sets off carbon monoxide alarm: ‘Never a dull moment’ | Fox News

Carbon monoxide alert at Angus holiday cottage before death

UK –

“Student Tom Hill, 18, collapsed and died 11 days after the holiday home operator was told about a previous tenant becoming unwell…The inquiry heard that a previous guest at the cottage had reported becoming physically unwell during her stay. The carbon monoxide alarm had also sounded.”

Carbon monoxide alert at Angus holiday cottage before death – BBC News

Lehigh Valley lawmaker trying again to require carbon monoxide detectors in daycares

Pennsylvania –

“Carbon monoxide detectors are currently not required for child care centers in Pennsylvania, despite repeated efforts by state legislators to change that.  State Rep. Jeanne McNeill, D-Lehigh County, last year sponsored a bill for the requirement, but it languished in committee. On Friday, McNeill announced she was reintroducing her legislation, which would require one or more alarms in buildings that house child care facilities with possible sources of carbon monoxide.”

Lehigh Valley lawmaker trying again to require carbon monoxide detectors in day cares – lehighvalleylive.com

Fire Depts called to Cedar Creek Cinema after several people fell ill from CO exposure

Wisconsin –
“…fire departments were called to Cedar Creek Cinema on Sunday after several people fell ill and passed out after leaving the theater…When they got there, they treated five people for suspected carbon monoxide, or CO, poisoning; four of those people then were taken to an area hospital… In theater No. 1, they found levels of 683 parts per million…Officials traced the CO leak to a faulty HVAC system”
No mention of any CO detection onsite.
Carbon monoxide leads to a trip to the hospital in Marathon County | WXPR

Toxic fumes on board airplanes? Airlines may finally have to do something about it

“Lawmakers cited a Los Angeles Times investigation that found that dangerous vapors contaminate the air supply on planes with alarming frequency, sometimes sickening passengers and crew and incapacitating pilots during flights. Over a two-year period, nearly 400 pilots, flight attendants and passengers reported receiving medical attention after these “fume events,” and four dozen pilots were described as impaired to the point of being unable to perform their duties, The Times found.”

Congress tackles toxic fumes on airplanes with new bill – Los Angeles Times (latimes.com)

 

Vehicle exhaust fills west Madison apartment with carbon monoxide

Madison, WI –

“Firefighters were called to the apartment…after a carbon monoxide alarm sounded…Because of the incident, firefighters were able to discover a malfunctioning garage exhaust system.”

Vehicle exhaust fills west Madison apartment with carbon monoxide | News | channel3000.com

Incident Type: Carbon Monoxide
Dispatch: Saturday, March 4, 2023 – 2:10pm
Arrival: Saturday, March 4, 2023 – 2:17pm
Address:
20 block Sayner Court
Madison, WI
Narrative:

An occupant at 21 Sayner Court dialed 911 after a carbon monoxide detector inside their apartment building began to alarm. Ladder Co. 2 arrived to the eight-unit apartment building and immediately noted a strong odor of vehicle exhaust in the hallway just inside the front door. The crew used an air monitor to detect approximately 40 parts per million (ppm) of carbon monoxide* in the first floor hallway. Occupants were asked to evacuate to the outdoors for their safety.

Meanwhile, Ladder 2’s crew proceeded to the underground parking structure, where carbon monoxide levels increased to 104 ppm. There were only two vehicles in the garage and neither were running at the time. Firefighters also noticed that the garage’s exhaust system was not turned on. The overhead door was opened to attempt to get some fresh air into the garage.

Firefighters went door to door to obtain additional carbon monoxide readings. Some apartment units had 40 ppm and others had very little. Patio doors and window were opened.

Eventually, firefighters pinpointed a running vehicle parked outside emitting high levels of exhaust. The owner said the vehicle had been parked in the underground lot and found to have a dead battery. After a jump, he took the vehicle outside, where it had been running for the past hour. It is unknown how long the vehicle was parked indoors before being moved outside, but firefighters suspect this was the source of the carbon monoxide buildup indoors.

The incident led to the discovery of a malfunctioning garage exhaust system, which should have alarmed and self-activated upon detecting high levels of carbon monoxide. Firefighters alerted maintenance staff to the problem, and maintenance staff said they would have the system serviced Monday (3/6/23).

With a smile, the person who called 911 asked if they would get a medal for calling this in. The firefighters were lacking medals aboard Ladder Co. 2, but they were sincerely grateful that this person dialed 911 before anyone in the building became ill from the carbon monoxide. After a quick trip to the ladder truck, a firefighter returned to the 911 caller’s unit to say “thank you” and to award them a shiny silver badge sticker.

*Exposure to carbon monoxide can lead to illness and death depending on the level of carbon monoxide in the air and the amount of time exposed to it. Most people being experiencing symptoms after being exposed to at least 50 ppm of carbon monoxide for eight hours or more.

Posted 03/06/2023 – 10:49am
Carbon Monoxide Discovered in Apartment Building Traced to Vehicle Exhaust | Fire, City of Madison, Wisconsin

Five people taken to hospital after carbon monoxide leak at downtown hotel, SAFD says

Hampton Inn & Suites – San Antonio, TX
No information about source of CO or whether hotel had CO detection installed
“Five people were taken to a hospital after a carbon monoxide leak led to an evacuation of a downtown hotel, according to San Antonio Fire Department.

The incident happened just before noon Friday in the 100 block of Soledad Street, at the Hampton Inn & Suites San Antonio Riverwalk.

Fire officials said five people in the gym were not feeling well and their symptoms aligned with possible carbon monoxide poisoning.

All of them were evacuated outside for fresh air before being taken to a local hospital by EMS.

Two of the gymgoers needed further treatment and three others were taken for evaluation out of precaution, according to SAFD.

A Hazmat crew was called to the scene for air monitoring and they found high levels of carbon monoxide in the building, fire officials said.

SAFD crews worked quickly to evacuate the entire building and get each of the floors ventilated. They’re still working to pinpoint the source of the gas leak that led to the carbon monoxide buildup.”

Five people taken to hospital after carbon monoxide leak at downtown hotel, SAFD says (ksat.com)

https://www.mysanantonio.com/news/local/article/san-antonio-hotel-evacuated-carbon-monoxide-17804509.php

“Chief Hood says that they are trying to find the source of the gas leak and believe it may be in the heating area downstairs by the pool.”

https://news4sanantonio.com/news/local/downtown-hotel-evacuated-after-reports-of-carbon-monoxide-poisonings-residents-san-antonio-bexar-county-police-ems-hospital-medical-emergency

State finds CenterPoint Energy violated procedures in Christmas Eve CO event in southern Indiana

Additional followup on this incident(s) in southern Indiana where occupants of dozens of homes were exposed to high levels of CO in December
“The IURC said it found the gas company, ‘Failed to properly operate its propane peak shaving plant located in the Clarksville Operating Service Area, inadequately heating its propane, resulting in too rich of a mixture being injected into their distribution system. As a result, it failed to meet NFPA 59 Section 9.4.2 (2) which requires redundant controls to prevent the introduction of petroleum vapor and liquids into gas distribution lines in quantities that could cause improper combustion in consumer appliances. These controls were not properly in place and resulted in this significant event.’”
State finds CenterPoint violated four procedures in Christmas Eve carbon monoxide event | Clark County | newsandtribune.com

Olton ISD tracks carbon monoxide leak to gas dryer

Olton, TX –
Incident #2 this month at Olton ISD – detail in video attached to this news story.
“After a thorough inspection of all possible sources and/or locations for carbon monoxide. it was found that the gas powered dryer in the gym facility was leaking carbon monoxide back into the gym facility. We will be doing the following in response to our findings. First, we will be replacing the gas-powered dryer with an electric dryer. Second, out of an abundance of caution, we will be testing our current carbon monoxide detectors to ensure that they are functioning properly…”
Olton ISD tracks carbon monoxide leak to gas dryer, no school Thursday (kcbd.com)

Canton police investigating 60-year-old man’s death at the business he owned

Canton, MI –

“…after clearing the scene, firefighters were called back on a report of (another) employee not feeling well. That’s when they detected a dangerous gas…four firefighters and three police officers were also sent to the hospital for evaluation…the deadly gas is odorless, and the only way to prevent such incidents is to install detectors at home and business.”

Canton police investigating 60-year-old man’s death at the business he owned (wxyz.com)

Antidote Against Fire Gas Poisoning: Overcomes Simultaneous Carbon Monoxide and Hydrogen Cyanide Poisoning

“A team of researchers led by Professor Hiroaki Kitagishi from Doshisha University in Japan has developed a synthetic heme-model compound called “hemoCD-Twins” that acts as an antidote for CO and HCN poisoning. The researchers detail the development of this novel antidote in a recent research article published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.”

Antidote Against Fire Gas Poisoning: Overcomes Simultaneous Carbon Monoxide and Hydrogen Cyanide Poisoning (scitechdaily.com)

 

‘Silent killer’: Metro Vancouver woman raises awareness about carbon monoxide poisoning

“Jessica Taschner was in a coma for a week and her boyfriend died after they were poisoned by carbon monoxide (CO) from a propane-run refrigerator while staying at a cabin… She spent summers there with her family, in the cabin her grandparents had built in the 1950s…”

‘Silent killer’: Metro Vancouver woman raises awareness about carbon monoxide poisoning | Vancouver Sun

Oread Hotel forced to evacuate after carbon monoxide alarms sound

Lawrence, KS –

“Guests and staff evacuated The Oread Hotel Monday afternoon after a carbon monoxide alarm went off in the laundry room.

Lawrence Douglas County Fire Department (LDCFM) responded around 2:30 p.m. Dispatch reported a carbon monoxide emergency with illness at the Oread, Rich Llewellyn, LDCFM fire chief, said.

‘The fire department had us evacuate the building until they could determine that it was safe to reenter,’ Tad Stricker, the Oread’s general manager, said.

Guests and employees evacuated for about 30 minutes while the fire department inspected the issue, Stricker said.

‘We did find elevated carbon monoxide levels in the laundry room,’ Llewelyn said. ‘We monitored for carbon monoxide throughout the structure and found no elevation outside of the laundry room.’

Four employees went to an urgent care facility after saying they felt dizzy and lightheaded, Stricker said.

As of now, they have cleared the carbon monoxide from the lower level by using exhaust shafts that are built into the garage. The problem was fixed by a technician who was already on site, according to Llewelyn.

According to the hotel, all of the guests and employees are back inside the building, and normal operations have resumed.

‘As a precaution, we have shut down our laundry room until we can determine the cause,’ Stricker said.

Llewelyn said that this is a good lesson for everyone to have a working carbon monoxide detector.

‘Whether you live in an apartment or house or even have a business, it’s always important to have a carbon monoxide detector available,’ Llewelyn said.

University Daily Kansan –

2/14/2023

https://www.kansan.com/news/oread-hotel-forced-to-evacuate-after-carbon-monoxide-alarms-sound/article_2e4c7ee4-ac18-11ed-bf2f-17fe949496f2.html

This EV is wiping out indoor air pollution in ice arenas across Canada

“In 2021, based on the study, Health Canada issued guidelines for improving air quality in arenas. Using electric resurfacers and edgers to maintain the ice, in order to eliminate the main sources of pollutants, was its top recommendation.”

This EV is wiping out indoor air pollution in arenas across Canada | CBC News

Gas company takes responsibility, apologizes for carbon monoxide issues in southern Indiana

* Update on incident that resulted in people being exposed to elevated levels of carbon monoxide in homes in southern Indiana over Christmas weekend.
“What I’m never going to forget about this…There were people just point going to the hospital in Clarksville. And they’re saying, well, you know, it must be the way you were maintaining your equipment. You must have not had it vented right. It must be your fault as the consumer, couldn’t be our fault, it must be yours, as the consumer. So, that kind of sticks with me, the tone of that denial…”
Gas company takes responsibility, apologizes for carbon monoxide issues in southern Indiana | Wdrb-video | wdrb.com

Olton ISD back open for Monday classes; carbon monoxide traced to kitchen

Olton, TX –
“We will continue to have experts conduct air quality and ventilation monitoring to ensure that the kitchen and all District facilities are safe. Additionally, we have begun installing Carbon Monoxide and/or Carbon Dioxide detectors throughout the District. Finally, in order to exercise the utmost care, some of the older heating equipment in the district will be removed and possibly replaced.”
Olton ISD back open for Monday classes; carbon monoxide traced to kitchen (kcbd.com)

3 teenagers found dead after using propane heater in closed garage

(Edgewood, NM) February 5th, 2023: The Edgewood Police Department is investigating the deaths of three teenagers found deceased in a garage in our jurisdiction. As of now there is no indication of foul play, it appears that the cause of death may be Carbon Monoxide Poisoning as a propane heater was found to be in use.
We are still attempting to notify families and loved ones and our investigation is still ongoing. More details will be provided as information unfolds.
We also are working with our local school district to provide chaplains and counseling to fellow students and families.
The Edgewood Police Department would like to stress to the community the dangers of Carbon Monoxide and the importance of having Carbon Monoxide detectors in homes and workspaces where heaters and appliances are in use. Carbon Monoxide is extremely dangerous, it cannot be seen, smelled, or heard.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and the community.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
rjimenenz@edgewood-nm.gov
Roger Jimenez
Chief of Police
Office: 505-281-5717

Edgewood Police Department

Travel + Leisure: The 6 Best Travel-sized Carbon Monoxide Detectors of 2023

“You’ve got your suitcase packed with clothes, shoes, and toiletries, and your carry-on has your passport, phone, and laptop. But one thing you are likely missing is a portable carbon monoxide detector. While you may already have one in your home, have you ever thought about bringing a carbon monoxide detector on the road? There have been a number of instances when hotel or vacation-home rental guests have been killed by carbon monoxide poisoning. The gas is odorless and tasteless, which is why it’s crucial to have a detector on hand.”

The 6 Best Carbon Monoxide Detectors for Travel in 2023 | by Travel + Leisure (travelandleisure.com)

 

Carbon Monoxide Alarm Leads to Discovery of Fire Brewing in Home Attic

Madison, WI –
“Firefighters investigated and did confirm the presence of carbon monoxide on the second story of the home, along with the odor of wood burning. The crew went on to find burning plaster and puffing smoke from a second-floor ceiling. This discovery led them to check the attic space, where they found smoldering insulation and burned wiring.”
Carbon Monoxide Alarm Leads to Discovery of Fire Brewing in Home Attic | Fire, City of Madison, Wisconsin

Person working on car found unconscious in garage

York County, PA –

Dover Township Fire Department

**CARBON MONOXIDE EMERGENCY**
1/27/23, 1709hrs. Rescue Squad 9 overheard a medical call going out in the Township for the report of an Unconscious Patient. Due to the primary ambulance service being on another call, the Rescue Squad responded with 6 personnel. On arrival they located 1 patient unconscious in a closed garage.
After further investigation they realized the car that was being worked on was still running. Crews metered the garage after donning SCBA and had over 1000PPM of Carbon Monoxide in the garage. E9-1 w/4 added onto the call and assisted with ventilation and metering the entire structure. The patient was transported to the local hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

Serious CO incident raises concern – Paradise Park boiler part recall process not completed

Colorado –
“A serious carbon monoxide (C.O.) incident that resulted in the extensive treatment of a Crested Butte woman on January 19 has raised awareness that further incidents could be an issue in houses built at the same time. All are located in the 800 block area of Gothic Avenue in the Paradise Park neighborhood and the problem appears connected to boilers that were installed with parts that have since been recalled but have not been replaced.”
Serious CB carbon monoxide incident raises concern – The Crested Butte News

17 people recovering after carbon monoxide poisoning at central Utah clinic

Ephraim, UT –
“The Central Utah Counseling Center in Ephraim was evacuated a week ago after a problem with an old furnace was discovered. People started feeling sick, with a variety of symptom…Havens is calling for a change to state regulations that would require public and commercial buildings to have working carbon monoxide detectors. ‘I really would like to see a change in Utah’s policies that offices should have to have it,’ Havens said. ‘Not just medical offices but all commercial buildings should have to have it because people shouldn’t have to go through this.’”
17 people recovering after carbon monoxide poisoning at central Utah clinic (ksltv.com)

Crotona Park East residents evacuated after manhole explosion, carbon monoxide leak

Bronx, NY –
“Residents in Crotona Park East had to be evacuated from their building Tuesday morning after a manhole fire.
Residents told News 12 they could smell a strange scent spreading through the floors of the building when they were rushed out of their homes.
The FDNY says there was a manhole on fire outside of a barbershop near the corner of Boston Road and East 173rd Street just before 7 a.m.
The fire released high levels of carbon monoxide into buildings and businesses nearby, forcing officials to evacuate residents.
Breathing in carbon monoxide can be extremely dangerous, causing those to pass out and even die.
There is no word on when the residents can return to the building. No injuries have been reported so far.”
https://bronx.news12.com/crotona-park-east-residents-evacuated-after-manhole-explosion-carbon-monoxide-leak

Ford Explorers don’t need recall for carbon monoxide levels, NHTSA says

“The probe covered nearly 1.5 million Explorers from the 2011 to 2017 model years and involved complaints of sickness and crashes that involved three deaths and alleged there were 657 injuries. Many complaints came from police departments that used Explorer Police Interceptors as patrol vehicles.”
Ford Explorers don’t need recall for carbon monoxide levels, federal agency says – CBS Boston (cbsnews.com)