Ottumwa, IA – A carbon monoxide leak has led to an evacuation on the Ottumwa Indian Hills Community College campus and sent some to the hospital. On Tuesday morning, November 8th people in the Bennett Student Services Building began complaining of feeling ill. The complaints were all symptoms that would coincide with carbon monoxide poisoning.
The building was evacuated and the Ottumwa Fire Department was notified, said Kevin Pink, IHCC Information Director. They came to campus and began testing and it was determined that there was a leak.
Approximately, 20 to 25 people complaining of symptoms were transported to Ottumwa Regional Health Center for treatment. At this time their conditions are unknown. Pink explained that Marlene Sprouse, President of IHCC, was on her way to the hospital to visit those affected and find out how they are doing.
The building is closed for today, Pink went on to explain. We’re waiting for the all clear before anyone is allowed back inside.
Ottumwa Fire Chief Tony Miller, said that IHCC will need to call in maintenance to determine what caused the gas leak.
Once the cause of the leak is determined and fixed, the building can be reopened, Chief Miller said. I explained that to President Sprouse and she’s going to get it taken care of quickly.
Chief Miller also explained that the people feeling ill will probably have slightly heightened CO levels in their systems. However, he says that it is treatable and they should make a fast recovery.