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In recent news, a tragic carbon monoxide poisoning at a hotel in Belize killed three U.S. tourists. It is the latest in a series of tragic stories of travelers dying from the dangers of this odorless, colorless gas. Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning can happen without notice, and the risk is especially high for those visiting hotels, vacation rentals and other temporary accommodations. Knowledge about carbon monoxide and some simple precautions could save your life and the lives of your loved ones.
What is Carbon Monoxide?
Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless and tasteless gas produced by the incomplete combustion of fossil fuels. It can be emitted from gas heaters, stoves, fireplaces, water heaters and even vehicles. Because CO cannot be identified by smell or sight, it can quickly accumulate in enclosed spaces, leading to deadly poisoning. The symptoms of exposure are headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion and, in severe cases, unconsciousness or death.
How Do Carbon Monoxide Leaks Happen?
Carbon monoxide leaks can happen in several situations, quite commonly when fuel-burning devices either malfunction or are not properly vented. For instance, blocked chimneys or gas appliances that are not well maintained may cause CO to build up in a room or a building. It is especially dangerous in environments like hotels and vacation apartments, where the level of maintenance might not be of the best quality.
A frequent risk factor is the presence of portable heaters in rental cabins or vacation homes. When not vented, these heaters have the potential to fill a room with carbon monoxide very rapidly. Likewise, improperly functioning gas stoves or gas water heaters can be very dangerous. Both in high-traffic tourist spots and in more out-of-the-way locations, there is a greater likelihood of encountering rental properties that are not well maintained, so it’s important to be on guard.
Recent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Incidents
The recent deaths of three women from Revere, Massachusetts in Belize serve as a grim reminder of the threat posed by carbon monoxide poisoning.
According to USA Today, “the tourists were all exposed to carbon monoxide before their deaths, with each registering carbon monoxide saturation levels of around 60%, according to the toxicology report reviewed by CBS News. A fatal level is 40%. Police believe the women may have been exposed to the gas from a faulty heater in their hotel room, WCVB reported.”
This tragic event is unfortunately not an isolated incident. Over the years, there have been numerous other cases reported around the world. In 2020, for example, four members of one family were found dead in a vacation house on Christmas Day after they succumbed to carbon monoxide poisoning. The leak was caused by a malfunctioning gas heater. One highly publicized event took place in the Bahamas when a family of tourists perished due to carbon monoxide poisoning after a faulty air conditioning unit failed to vent properly and the gas built up in their holiday rental. And more details have been released about the tragic death of ex-Yankee Brett Gardner’s 14-year-old son, who is believed to have died from carbon monoxide poisoning at a hotel in Costa Rica.
Even in the US, CO poisoning is among the leading causes of poisoning death for travelers, with cases being reported annually during the peak tourist seasons. In the U.S. alone, carbon monoxide poisoning claims over 400 lives annually, and hurts thousands, as stated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). While some fatalities are caused by faulty vehicles or equipment, others occur when people are unfamiliar with carbon monoxide hazards during temporary shelter.
Avoiding Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
There are simple measures that guests can take to protect themselves from carbon monoxide poisoning’s risks. Here’s what you can do:
Check for Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Most hotels and vacation rentals may not be equipped with carbon monoxide detectors. However, it’s essential to check whether detectors are installed and functional in the room or house you’re staying in. If there are no detectors, or if they seem outdated or missing, it’s advisable to take additional steps to ensure your safety.
Travel with a Portable Carbon Monoxide Detector
A simple solution to protect yourself is to buy a portable carbon monoxide detector. These small, battery-operated devices are easy to toss into your suitcase and set up in your room upon check-in. They’ll alert you if carbon monoxide builds up to dangerous levels.. This is compact, easy to use and provides an essential safety measure for people on the go.
Provide Good Ventilationtravel
If you’re staying in a cabin, villa or home with a fireplace or gas heating system, make sure the space is adequately ventilated. Always check that windows and vents are clear of debris and open during use. If the heater or stove is malfunctioning, notify the property manager immediately and request a different room or unit.
Never Block Vents
Never block appliance vents or exhausts, as this can prevent carbon monoxide from venting outside where it belongs. Use extreme caution when using gas-powered appliances or portable heaters indoors.
Know the Symptoms of CO Poisoning
Be aware of the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning. Mild poisoning will cause headaches, dizziness, and nausea. Severe poisoning will cause confusion, unconsciousness, or death. If you start to feel unwell, especially in a poorly ventilated or enclosed space, get out immediately and obtain fresh air.
Choose Reputable Facilities
When booking a hotel or rental property, do your homework. Choose properties with good reputations and ratings, and a track record of taking care of their properties. If possible, check to see if carbon monoxide detectors are installed or inquire about safety measures prior to booking.
While carbon monoxide poisoning is a preventable tragedy, too many vacationers continue to die from this silent killer while traveling. From the deadly cases in Belize to others around the globe, it’s clear that more needs to be done to safeguard the safety of travelers. By understanding the risks, being aware of the symptoms, and taking precautionary actions such as carrying a handheld CO detector, travelers can significantly reduce their risk of carbon monoxide poisoning and enjoy a much safer trip.
Remember, when in doubt, safety first and take the necessary precautions to protect yourself from this invisible threat.
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