Rangers Respond to Carbon Monoxide Incident on Houseboat – Lake Powell, AZ

On July 17, 2024, at approximately 12:45 a.m., the National Park Service (NPS) Glen Canyon Regional Communications Center received a call from Kane County Dispatch of a possible carbon monoxide poisoning incident on a privately owned vessel in Face Canyon. Face Canyon is located near buoy 24 on Lake Powell within Glen Canyon National Recreation area and encompasses both the state of Arizona and Utah. This incident happened on the Arizona side of the canyon within Coconino County.

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area Rangers responded immediately and provided medical support on scene. Initial reports were of 4 patients suffering from carbon monoxide poisoning onboard a houseboat. Upon arrival, a total of twenty-one patients were identified. Also assisting on scene were personnel from Classic Air Medical, who dispatched 3 medical helicopters and Intermountain Life Flight, who dispatched 2 medical helicopters. A total of 5 patients (3 adults and 2 juveniles) were flown to the St. George Regional Hospital for further treatment. The remaining sixteen patients were treated and released on scene.

The source of the carbon monoxide is currently under investigation by the National Park Service and Coconino County Sheriff’s Office. This is the third carbon monoxide-related incident responded to by Glen Canyon National Recreation Area Rangers this month.

All boaters should be aware of the dangers of carbon monoxide (CO) and ensure on-board CO detectors are operable prior to embarking on your trip. Carbon Monoxide is an odorless, tasteless gas that can cause death when inhaled. Symptoms of exposure can include headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and confusion. A person who is sleeping can die from CO poisoning before recognizing symptoms. Boats can collect dangerous levels of CO anytime fuel-burning, engines or appliances are running. More safety information is available at go.nps.gov/GLCAsafe