6 kids, 3 adults sickened by 'life-threatening' carbon monoxide levels inside Delaware apartment: officials
WILMINGTON, Del. - Multiple people, including children between the ages of two and nine, were rescued from a Wilmington dwelling after life-threatening levels of carbon monoxide were found in the building.
The incident happened Friday, around 12:30 in the afternoon, on the 900 block of North Madison Street.
Firefighters were called to the dwelling, which was divided into various apartments, due to a carbon monoxide alarm.
Crews found carbon monoxide readings over 500 parts per million, a life-threatening level.
Firefighters then broke down doors inside two neighboring apartment buildings, finding at least two children unresponsive and at least seven other people in need of immediate medical attention.
Two adults were taken to Wilmington Hospital and one person refused medical attention.
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No details were provided regarding anyone’s condition.
Officials believe the colorless, odorless gas surfaced while a contractor was working in the basement of the building.
"He was conducting remediation or cleaning and had a gas-powered pressure washer inside the basement while he was doing the work," Captain Matthew Marsella, with the Safety and Training Unit of the Wilmington Fire Department, explained.
Captain Marsella says gas-powered appliances, including power washers and generators should only be used outside, at least 20 feet away from any home. "Be safe. Don’t think just because you have a window open that that’s enough to remove carbon monoxide. Use extension chords for generators and longer hose attachments for pressure washers."
Signs of CO poisoning include dizziness, tiredness, shortness of breath and chest pains. Pets should also be monitored if they are acting out of the ordinary.
A thorough investigation is underway conducted by the Wilmington Fire Marshal, while Wilmington L&I is handling the scene. The Fire Marshal's office encourages anyone in need of a carbon monoxide detector to call them at 302-576-3120, as they have a small supply and want to help people stay safe. More information can be found on the Wilmington Fire Department website.