Lexington fire officials: Carbon monoxide detectors can save lives, prevent ‘silent killer’
LEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC36 News Now) — Fire officials in Lexington are reminding the public about the dangers of carbon monoxide after a recent poisoning incident sent more than a dozen people to the hospital.
ABC 36 News Now spoke with Lexington Fire Battalion Chief Derek Roberts at the scene, who described carbon monoxide — or CO — as “the silent killer” because it has no taste, smell, or color.
“CO replaces oxygen in the blood, which can lead to death if untreated,” Roberts explained. “Early symptoms include dizziness and headaches, but can progress to shortness of breath, sleepiness, loss of muscle control, and more.”
He said how quickly the gas becomes deadly depends on the concentration in the air, which is why it’s critical to have carbon monoxide detectors installed in your home.
“Because it is silent, because it is clear, because you don’t have any idea if it’s in your home, it’s always important to have a detector,” Roberts said. “That detector can alert you certainly before any kind of symptoms show up.”
Carbon monoxide detectors can last up to 10 years, and anyone exposed to CO should immediately get to fresh air and seek medical help.
We are working to learn from the fire department if any apartments in the complex had working carbon monoxide detectors.
