Media Coverage:
Firefighters save couple from carbon monoxide poisoning
NWF Daily News, January 21st, 2009

Carbon Monoxide Safety Information:
Exposing an Invisible Killer: The Dangers of Carbon Monoxide
U.S.Fire Administration

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 20, 2009
Contact: OCWFD, Public Information Officer
Contact Person: Capt. Ryan Christen
Company Name: Ocean City-Wright Fire Control District
Telephone Number: 850-862-1185
Email Address: rgchristen@ocwfcd.org   

Ocean City-Wright Fire Firefighters Rescue Two From Carbon Monoxide Exposure

On January 20, 2009 the Ocean City Wright Fire Department was dispatched to a medical emergency for a patient advising they were feeling dizzy. ALS(Advanced Life Support) Engine One responded to the call at a residence in the Ocean City-Wright area.

Upon arrival the crews began checking the patient and the residence and quickly developed suspicions that the patient may be suffering from carbon monoxide exposure. The members immediately began providing ALS care to the patient, while other crew members checked the residence with a handheld Carbon Monoxide Detector carried on all of our trucks. The crews immediately discovered very high levels of the colorless, odorless gas. While checking the residence the fire firefighters also discovered a second patient in a back bedroom. The fire fighters quickly removed both occupants from the home. Okaloosa EMS responded two ambulances to the scene. Both individuals were taken to the hospital by Okaloosa County EMS.

Battalion Chief Terry Kline called for an Okaloosa gas representative to come out to the home for a safety inspection. The cause of the leak was not due to Okaloosa Gas equipment, however they were quick to respond and assist. Members of Okaloosa gas were able to identify the problem.  

Carbon Monoxide, also known as the “Silent Killer” is one of the leading causes of accidental poisoning deaths in America. Carbon Monoxide can be produced in the home from many common appliances that are not properly ventilated. Early symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning can include headaches, dizziness, and fatigue. Prolonged exposure to high levels can cause unconsciousness and may be fatal. For the safety of you and your family the Ocean City-Wright Fire Control District recommends that if you have any gas appliances that you purchase a Carbon Monoxide Detector.

The Fire Fighters at the scene found readings in the home of over 400 PPM (parts per million). Ratings this high are considered extremely dangerous, and could easily result in death. Thanks to the training and fast thinking of the Ocean City-Wright Fire Fighters that responded to this call both occupants of the home were rescued. We are very proud of our members for their actions on this call. Utilizing the Carbon Monoxide Meter that we carry on all of our trucks, and providing quick ALS care likely prevented a tragedy this morning.  

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(Press Release is finished)

 

For additional information, Contact:
Capt. Ryan Christen
OCW Public Information Officer

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