Greensburg, PA – Five people were taken to the hospital after a carbon monoxide leak at a home in Hempfield Township, Westmoreland County.
On Saturday evening, firefighters and emergency medical services were called to a home on Keystone Avenue for reports of an unknown odor coming from the basement. Crews at the scene reported high levels of carbon monoxide and residents suffering from headaches and nausea, which are signs of carbon monoxide poisoning. Five people were taken to the hospital to be treated.
According to officials, the cause of the carbon monoxide was a leak coming from the furnace.
Center for Disease Control trips to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning:
Install and check carbon monoxide alarms throughout the year. Batteries should be changed every six months
All heating equipment should be inspected as winter approaches
Gas appliances should be properly vented
Never leave the motor of a vehicle running in an enclosed space, such as the garage
Never run a generator or any gasoline powered engine inside an enclosed space
Never use a charcoal grill, lantern, or portable camping stove inside a home, tent or camper
Signs and Symptoms of CO Poisoning:
headache
dizziness
nausea
vomiting
chest pain
confusion