In a recent incident in Albany Park, Chicago, a dozen people, including five children, were taken to the hospital due to carbon monoxide exposure. The event took place in an apartment building, where the Chicago Fire Department responded to a report of a sick child. On their arrival, they discovered high levels of carbon monoxide in the building.
Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that can cause severe health problems and even death. It is produced by burning fuel in cars, stoves, lanterns, grills, fireplaces, gas ranges, or furnaces. When inhaled, it can cause symptoms like headaches, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion. High levels of exposure can lead to loss of consciousness and death.
The Chicago Fire Department evacuated the building and took twelve people to the Swedish Covenant and St. Francis hospitals for treatment. Among them were five children, with the youngest being just two months old. The victims were reported in stable condition.
The Fire Department identified the source of the carbon monoxide leak as a faulty boiler in the building. The building's owner was cited for the lack of carbon monoxide detectors. Having these detectors is crucial as they can save lives by alerting residents to the presence of the deadly gas, allowing them to evacuate in time.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of carbon monoxide, especially in closed environments like apartment buildings. It underscores the need for proper maintenance of appliances and devices that can produce the gas, as well as the importance of installing and regularly checking carbon monoxide detectors.