Hutchinson Fire Department rescues two from carbon monoxide poisoning
Information obtained from Chad Allen, Battalion Chief, Hutchinson Fire Department
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Two people were hospitalized Monday, Nov. 24, after firefighters rescued them from a building with dangerously high carbon monoxide levels on the city's east side.
The Hutchinson Fire Department responded to the 1200 block of East 30th Street at 10:43 p.m. for a report of an unconscious person. First responders found two people on the building's west side and learned a third person inside was unconscious.
Upon entering the structure, crews' carbon monoxide and gas monitors immediately went into alarm. Firefighters quickly removed the unconscious patient to fresh air, and the captain requested additional units for what was determined to be a hazmat situation.
Reno County EMS transported both patients to a hospital for treatment and further evaluation.
Additional crews who arrived to assist discovered extremely high carbon monoxide levels inside the building. The structure was opened and ventilated using high-flow electric fans until readings returned to zero.
Battalion Chief Chad Allen thanked Reno County EMS and emergency communications for their assistance with the incident.