OVERVIEW
- Carbon Monoxide Risks: Recent tragedies highlight the deadly dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning in homes and vacation rentals.
- Prevention Tips: Install and maintain detectors, check vacation rentals, and service fuel-burning appliances regularly.
- Portable Detector Advice: Travelers should carry a portable carbon monoxide detector for added safety.
On Christmas Day, tragedy struck the Goldstein family of Newton, Massachusetts; they lost their lives to carbon monoxide poisoning in their vacation home in Wakefield, New Hampshire. This heartbreaking incident has brought renewed attention to the silent and often overlooked dangers of carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless gas that claims lives every year.
According to USA Today, “Family members asked police to conduct a welfare check on the Goldsteins after they didn’t show up to a holiday gathering as expected. At 4:21 p.m. Wednesday, authorities said police responded to the home in Wakefield, about 45 miles northeast from the state capital city of Concord. Officers found four deceased adults in the house.”
The Goldstein family members were identified as Matthew Goldstein (52), Lyla Goldstein (54), Valerie Goldstein (22) and Violet Goldstein (19).
“The New Hampshire Office of the Chief Medical Examiner has determined Matthew Goldstein’s cause of death was carbon monoxide poisoning, and the manner is pending. The cause and manner of death of Lyla Goldstein, Valerie Goldstein, and Violet Goldstein remain pending.”
A Growing Concern
Sadly, the Goldstein family’s story is not unique. In another recent tragedy, Canadian actress and model Dayle Haddon died of suspected carbon monoxide poisoning inside a residence in Solebury, Pennsylvania on Friday, December 27.
According to CNN, “Police said that their investigation “indicates a faulty flue and exhaust pipe on a gas heating system caused the carbon monoxide leak.”
Carbon monoxide poisoning can occur when fuel-burning appliances like furnaces, gas stoves, and generators malfunction or are improperly ventilated. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include headache, dizziness, nausea, and confusion, which can escalate to unconsciousness and death if exposure continues.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 400 Americans die from unintentional carbon monoxide poisoning each year, with thousands more seeking medical attention. While most cases occur in homes, incidents in vacation rentals, hotels, and even vehicles are not uncommon, especially during colder months when heating systems are in high use.
The Importance of Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Carbon monoxide detectors are life-saving devices that provide an early warning when dangerous levels of carbon monoxide are present, allowing individuals to evacuate and seek help.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) advises installing carbon monoxide detectors in key locations throughout the home, including outside each sleeping area and on every level of the house. For vacation rentals, it is essential to ensure that the property is equipped with functioning detectors before booking or upon arrival. If no detectors are present, travelers can take proactive measures to protect themselves.
A Portable Solution for Travelers
Travelers can reduce their risk of carbon monoxide poisoning by bringing a portable carbon monoxide detector. The Kidde Carbon Monoxide Detector plugs into the wall but comes with a AA battery back-up in the event of a power outage. A test-hush button makes testing the detector or silencing false alarms easy and an end of life chirp notifies you when the alarm needs to be replaced. Compact and easy to use, this device offers peace of mind by providing reliable detection in unfamiliar settings. Whether staying in a hotel, Airbnb or cabin, having a personal detector ensures an added layer of safety. Buy here on Amazon.
Tips for Carbon Monoxide Safety
- Install Detectors at Home: Ensure that your home is equipped with carbon monoxide detectors in all recommended locations. Test the alarms monthly and replace batteries as needed.
- Inspect Vacation Rentals: Before settling into a rental property, check for carbon monoxide detectors and verify that they are operational. If none are present, use a portable detector.
- Maintain Appliances: Regularly service fuel-burning appliances, including furnaces, water heaters, and stoves, to ensure they function correctly.
- Ventilate Properly: Never block vents or chimneys and avoid using portable generators or grills indoors or in enclosed spaces.
- Know the Symptoms: Familiarize yourself with the signs of carbon monoxide poisoning and act quickly if you or anyone in your party experiences symptoms.
Find more information from the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) about installing and maintaining carbon monoxide detectors here.
A Preventable Tragedy
The deaths of the Goldstein family and Dayle Haddon are sobering reminders of how quickly carbon monoxide can turn a joyful occasion into a devastating tragedy. However, these losses also highlight the critical steps everyone can take to prevent similar incidents. By prioritizing the use of carbon monoxide detectors and staying informed about potential risks, you can protect yourself and your loved ones, whether at home or away.
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