FROSTBURG — Nine people were evaluated by medical personnel after feeling ill from carbon monoxide exposure in Frostburg early Thursday, according to a Shaft Volunteer Fire Department spokesperson.
“We had high levels of carbon monoxide in the basement of the house, verified by several meters,” the fire department spokesperson said. “Nine occupants were complaining of nausea and dizziness.”
The incident at 154 Bowery St. was reported to the Allegany County Joint Communications Center just before 3 a.m.
“Columbia Gas was on the scene and said there was no leaks,” according to fire department officials. “We had ventilated the structure, and the readings could not be reproduced.”
Fire department units from Shaft and Cresaptown volunteer fire departments and ambulances from Cresaptown, Mount Savage and LaVale responded.
Frostburg Fire Department was at the scene of a house fire during this incident, fire department Assistant Chief Doug Hanson said.
“We believe there was some type of car or combustible motor that may have leaked into the house,” officials said.
The American Red Cross was contacted for five adults and four children affected by the incident.
“The occupants were alerted by carbon monoxide detectors in the residence and evacuated,” fire officials said.
“Carbon monoxide poisoning occurs when the gas builds up in your bloodstream, preventing oxygen from getting to your vital organs, such as the brain, heart and lungs,” Allegany County Department of Emergency Services EMS Division Chief Michael Salvadge said. “Carbon monoxide binds to hemoglobin in your blood more easily than oxygen.”
Common causes of carbon monoxide poisoning include faulty furnaces, portable generators, water heaters and car exhaust in poorly ventilated areas, according to Salvadge.
“Common symptoms include headache, confusion and unconsciousness,” Salvadge said.
“If you believe that you have been exposed, seeking fresh air immediately is vital,” Salvadge said.
Todd Bowman is a local and national journalist specializing in public safety news. Follow his work on all social media platforms @ThePeakedT.