The Westfield Fire Department recently responded to a reported gas odor in a residence in the 700 block of Hampton Road. Five victims were located in a neighbor’s house. All showed symptoms consistent with carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. An investigation of the home revealed high levels of carbon monoxide. Further investigation revealed a broken vent pipe coming from a gas heater. There were no carbon monoxide detectors in the home. No crew members were injured at the scene. All patients were transported to the hospital.
“This emphasizes the importance of having working CO detectors in the home,” stated Public Information Officer Nick Southerland. “This family was extremely fortunate that someone woke up early for work and recognized the symptoms, otherwise the outcome could have been very different.”
The ability of first responders to quickly recognize and treat the symptoms of CO poisoning was key in preventing this situation from becoming much worse.
Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas. It is often referred to as the silent killer. The most common symptoms of CO poisoning include headache, dizziness, weakness, upset stomach, vomiting, chest pain and confusion. CO detectors can be purchased at local home improvement stores. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for testing the alarm and replacing at the end of its life cycle. If you think you may be having a CO emergency, please dial 9-1-1 and move to an area of fresh air immediately.