By Adriana M. Chávez
El Paso Times
LOWER VALLEY, Texas — Four people were treated for carbon monoxide poisoning this morning because of a faulty heater in their Lower Valley home, fire officials said.
The family called paramedics at about 7:30 a.m. today in the 600 block of Greggerson Drive.
El Paso Fire Department spokesman Inspector John Concha said family members woke up in the middle of the night with flu-like symptoms, but called paramedics this morning when they continued to feel ill.
“If they had waited a few more minutes it could have been a lot different,” Concha said.
Four people were taken to Las Palmas Medical Center for treatment and have since been released. However, their home has been closed off until a licensed professional technician can evaluate the home’s heater and make necessary repairs.
Concha said last year, there were 25 reports of carbon monoxide poisonings. So far this year, there have been 46 reports, possibly because of February’s deep freeze and the cold temperatures in the area so far this season.
Concha said he recommends residents install a carbon monoxide detector in their homes, and have a professional examine heaters to make sure they’re working properly.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the most common symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain and confusion.
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