Emergency crews responded Sunday afternoon to a carbon monoxide incident at a home on Downey Avenue, where multiple people were found suffering from possible CO exposure. The call came in at 4:42 p.m., reporting an unconscious man inside a Lexus ES350 parked in a garage. According to dispatch records, the caller believed the man may have passed out from carbon monoxide fumes. A second person who attempted to help also appeared fatigued. Units from Washington Police, Washington Township Fire, and several Daviess Community Hospital EMS crews arrived moments later. Firefighters confirmed a very high concentration of carbon monoxide, up to 165 ppmm inside the residence. All occupants were evacuated by 5:02 p.m. EMS treated multiple patients, including an adult male, an adult female, and two children. Several were transported to DCH by ambulance, while others were taken by private vehicle. Fire crews ventilated the home, and CO readings returned to zero by 5:35 p.m.
Winter Warning: Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Risks Rise in Cold Weather
Local authorities are urging residents to use extreme caution with gas appliances, garages, and propane heaters as winter begins. Carbon monoxide is deadly, odorless, and impossible to detect without proper alarms.
Key dangers during winter include:
Running a vehicle inside a garage, even with the door open. CO can accumulate quickly.
Using propane heaters, gas stoves, or kerosene heaters indoors without proper ventilation.
Malfunctioning furnaces, water heaters, or generators.
Blocked vents caused by snow, ice, or debris.
Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include
Headache
Fatigue or weakness
Dizziness
Nausea or vomiting
Confusion
Loss of consciousness
High levels can be fatal within minutes.
Safety Tips:
Install CO detectors on every level of your home and check batteries regularly.
Never run vehicles, grills, or generators inside a garage or enclosed space.
Have furnaces and gas appliances inspected annually.
Ensure proper ventilation when using fuel-burning heaters.
Move immediately to fresh air and call 911 if CO exposure is suspected. Winter is the most dangerous season for CO poisoning. Sunday’s incident serves as a reminder to stay alert and protect your family.
