Crews respond to possible CO poisoning

CINCINNATI -- As weather in the Tri-State took its first dip to near freezing temperatures over the weekend, Cincinnati crews responded to their first home emergency involving carbon monoxide (CO) gas.

Shortly after midnight Monday, firefighters and medical technicians responded to the scene of possible CO poisoning.

A woman coming home to her apartment complex in the 2000 block of Stratford Avenue said she her downstairs neighbor calling out for help.

The woman called 911. When crews arrived they found a woman and child inside with high levels of the poisonous gas that is a byproduct of burning fossil fuels such as natural gas.

Though firefighters could not confirm the cause until their investigation into the incident was completely, they initially believed a faulty heating unit turned on during the night created the dangerous situation.

Duke Energy workers arrived on the scene and turned the gas lines off to the building.

The mother and child were transported to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center for treatment. Their condition was not immediately available.

The incident stands as a reminder for anyone with gas heat in their home to take extra precautions as they turn on furnaces for the first time.

Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas usually given a faint odor by energy providers like Duke Energy for easier detection. If you turn on your heater and there is an odd smell in your home, turn the unit off.

The Center for Disease Control recommends having gas heating, water heaters and other gas, oil or coal burning appliances serviced by a qualified technician every year.

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Crews respond to possible CO poisoning