Worcester, MA – WORCESTER Several people were taken to area hospitals after they were exposed to high levels of carbon monoxide at 86 Shrewsbury St. late Sunday night.
Deputy Fire Chief Geoffrey Gardell said firefighters responded along with an ambulance after a report of a woman who was believed to be intoxicated and “in and out of consciousness” at 11:30 p.m.
When emergency crews entered the building, which is home to the Shisha Room hookah bar, the carbon monoxide alarms they carry in their bags began sounding, indicating high levels of the gas. When firefighters from Engine 6 arrived, their alarms also sounded, the deputy chief said, though no alarms inside the building were activated.
Five people were transported to area hospitals with high levels of carbon monoxide in their blood; some were feeling faint, had headaches and were nauseous and vomiting. They are expected to recover.
A ladder truck was called and firefighters used it to check the roof of the building where they discovered the vents were completely blocked with snow, Deputy Chief Gardell said.
The building owner could not be reached but was told in a voice mail from the fire department to clear snow from the roof before the business could reopen.
Carbon monoxide is odorless and colorless and prolonged exposure can cause death. Chief Gardell said people should be cautious. Given the amount of snow, vents can easily be buried, causing the gas to build up inside of homes and businesses. He said those with roof vents should be sure they are clear and all other vents should be checked and cleared, as well.
Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are headaches, nausea, vomiting and exhaustion. Anyone who experiences such symptoms inside a building should leave and alert the fire department. Homes should have carbon monoxide detectors, as well.