By EMS1 Staff
PERHAM, Minn. — One person died and three EMS providers, among several others, were hospitalized after suffering symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning this week.
A woman called 911 after finding her husband, Tom Elkin, 67, not breathing, reported KTTC. Elkin died at the scene; an autopsy report concluded he died of carbon monoxide poisoning, reported KFGO. Officials says a faulty furnace vent likely caused the buildup of carbon monoxide, reported the West Fargo Pioneer.
“When firefighters, law enforcement and EMS arrived, Elkin’s wife began to show signs of suffering from carbon monoxide poisoning,” Otter Tail Sheriff’s Lt. Keith Van Dyke said. “And so did the emergency workers. High levels of carbon monoxide were detected and they realized they had a problem, and got out of the house.”
The ill responders were airlifted to a medical facility with specialized equipment for treating for carbon monoxide poisoning. Four other patients were transported to the hospital.
Van Dyke said everyone who was hospitalized was treated and recovering.
“Our hearts go out to our first responders and their families,” Chuck Hofius, Perham Health CEO, said. “Each time EMS personnel go on a call, we know there is risk and worry for their safety. They did an incredible job in a very scary situation.”