Local officials are urging residents to ensure carbon monoxide detectors are present and functioning within their homes.
“Because carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas, we often are not going to have a warning unless we have detectors in our homes,” said Jennifer Thrush, public information officer for the Union County Health Department.
Thrush said the gas is produced when fuel is burned. It can cause severe illness or death when high amounts are present.
A faulty pool heater at the Hampton Inn in Marysville created excessive carbon monoxide (CO) levels that injured multiple people Jan. 29.
Marysville Division of Fire Chief Jay Riley said there was a carbon monoxide detector in the hotel’s pool area but it was not triggered during the incident Saturday. He said the State Fire Marshal is currently investigating why.
Thrush said there are several symptoms commonly experienced by those exposed to elevated CO levels.
They include headaches, dizziness, weakness, upset stomachs, vomiting and confusion.
Since the symptoms of CO poisoning are not unique to the specific illness, Thrush said families should “be cognizant” that they can be tied to carbon monoxide.
Thrush noted that carbon monoxide poisoning “can affect anyone” but infants and elderly people, along with those with preexisting heart or lung conditions, “tend to be more easily” impacted.
Though CO poisoning can be fatal, Thrush emphasized that a properly functioning carbon monoxide detector can often prevent illness or death.
She encouraged families to install battery operated detectors in or near bedrooms, close enough that a sleeping person would be woken up by the alarm.
The batteries should be changed “every time you change your clock” in the spring and fall, Thrush said. The detector itself should be replaced approximately every five years.
She added that individuals often overlook some fuel-burning appliances that can cause carbon monoxide leaks.
Appliances such as water heaters should be serviced every year by a qualified technician, Thrush said.
Likewise, chimneys should be cleaned and inspected once a year.
Thrush said precautions surrounding CO are especially important in the colder months.
She reminded residents never to use a generator indoors. Thrush said that includes within a garage or carport.
Similarly, a gas range should never be used to heat a home, she said.