Rise in Carbon Monoxide Incidents, Boston Officials Warn Residents
The Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC) has issued a health advisory after responding to a rise in carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning over the past few weeks of incredibly cold, snowy weather.
Between January 26th and February 12th, Boston Emergency Medical Service responded to five suspected carbon monoxide related incidents. Nine patients were hospitalized, and two patients were seriously ill and transported to area hospitals for further treatment. No deaths have been reported.
“As Boston continues to experience frigid temperatures, and with more snowfall predicted this week, I urge residents to make sure they protect themselves, their children, and their neighbors from this dangerous, yet preventable threat,’’ Mayor Marty Walsh said in a prepared statement.
CO is hard to identify: It’s colorless, odorless, and tasteless. CO prevents the body from using oxygen and can cause serious damage to the heart, brain, and other organs. Vehicles or generators left running in a garage can produce CO.
The BPHC has a few guidelines to prevent these incidents:
The BPHC has a few guidelines to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
“It’s also important to know the early signs of carbon monoxide poisoning so that you can protect yourself and those around you from serious illness,’’ Dr. Huy Nguyen, interim executive director of BPHC, said in the press release. “If you suspect that you or someone else has carbon monoxide poisoning, seek fresh air immediately and call 911.’’
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