(Courtesy photo)
By LAURIE COKER
editor@portisabelsouthpadre.com
As winter approaches, the Port Isabel Fire Marshal warns of carbon monoxide exposure increasing, especially as people turn on heaters for the first time. Heaters, generators, stoves, and water heaters running on gas or propane can all produce carbon monoxide. The gas is odorless and colorless, making it virtually undetectable without a carbon monoxide detector.
The symptoms of exposure, including fatigue and flu-like feelings, can be misleading, as Sandoval explains. “A lot of times, people just feel tired, or like they’re coming down with something, and they will lay down to go to sleep, but unfortunately, they don’t wake up.”
In response to this looming danger, fire departments are proactively raising awareness. They engage the community through various channels, including social media, news interviews, and events like National Night Out.
Fire Prevention Week, held in October, is another occasion for local fire departments to educate the public on safety issues, including carbon monoxide dangers. Port Isabel’s Fire Department recently visited Garriga Elementary, delivering a fire safety program as part of their public safety initiative.
As the weather turns colder, Sandoval urges everyone to remember the dangers of carbon monoxide and consider purchasing a carbon monoxide detector. In case of emergency, he advises, “When in doubt, call 9-1-1,” and for general questions, reach out to the local non-emergency numbers for assistance.
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