With colder temps come warnings about carbon monoxide poisoning
Device can detect amount of poison in person’s blood
With colder temperatures setting in, the potential for carbon monoxide poisoning increases as families begin heating their homes. The Texarkana Emergency Center and the Texarkana, Texas, Fire Department held a press conference to warn about the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning and what people can do to protect themselves.
They also demonstrated a new device, the CO-oximeter recently purchased by the fire department to evaluate the level of a person’s carbon monoxide exposure at the scene and determine if further medical care is needed.
“This is the time of year we start using heaters and fireplaces. Unfortunately we will see a case or two of carbon-monoxide poisoning,” said Dr. Matt Young, director and physician owner of Texarkana Emergency Center.
The fire department bought two CO-oximeters, about $2,500 each, with the money from a couple of grants. It allows them to get an idea of a person’s carbon monoxide levels at the scene where before victims would’ve had to come to the emergency room for
a blood test to determine their levels.
“We have a lot of carbon monoxide calls but we’re fortunate we don’t see a lot of poisonings. … It’s an initial tool. On the scene it gives us a great idea if someone has been exposed and how to go forward with their care,” said Eric Schlotter, Texarkana, Texas, fire chief. “There are two types of exposurelow dose exposure from a slow leak or high-dose quick exposure. … Also firemen are continuously exposed to carbon monoxide so we’ll use this device for them too.”
Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning can mimic other illnesses including the flu, headache, dizziness, fatigue, nausea and vomiting.
“More serious exposure can lead to confusion, passing out, loss of consciousness and unfortunately death,” Young said.
Carbon monoxide comes from heating sources that use carbon-based fuel, including natural gas and propane, wood-burning fireplaces and vehicle exhaust.
“The biggest mistake people make is using some type of patchwork device for heating,” Schlotter said. “And running cars in the garage is dangerous.
Prevention is key and includes getting those heating sources serviced or cleaned annually and having carbon monoxide detectors in the home.
“(Carbon monoxide detectors) are not permanent. They have a life span. … Follow manufacturer recommendations,” Schlotter said. “If you think you have a carbon monoxide leak call 911 … and go to fresh air.”
Knowing the symptoms and being aware of the threat presented by carbon monoxide poisoning could save a life.
“It doesn’t take very much exposure to carbon monoxide before the effects set in … it’s an odorless, colorless killer,” Young said. “It’s very serious and it can be deadly. We don’t want to see anyone come to the emergency room like that but it’s something we have at the top of our mind this time of year.”