BERRYVILLE, VA (June 11, 2024) On June 6, 2024, the Clarke County Department of Fire, EMS and Emergency Management along with fire and rescue personnel from Boyce, Blue Ridge, and Mount Weather as well as fire and rescue personnel from Frederick County, Va., and Jefferson County, W.Va., responded to the 800 block of Westwood Road in Berryville for a possible carbon monoxide poisoning.
Three adults were transported to an area hospital for potential carbon monoxide poisoning. One cat was found deceased inside the home from apparent carbon monoxide exposure.
Upon arriving at the scene, the Fire and EMS teams received elevated carbon monoxide readings on their gas meters inside the home. Crews worked diligently to ventilate the home, addressing the carbon monoxide issue. The carbon monoxide levels gradually decreased, and air quality was back within normal limits.
The cause of the carbon monoxide leak was determined to be a leaking propane tank, and the appropriate propane company was called to the scene. The leak was repaired before the gas was turned back on.
Clarke County Fire, EMS & Emergency Management Chief Wayne Whetsell strongly encourages everyone to install battery-powered or battery-backup carbon monoxide detectors in their homes. Individuals can prevent carbon monoxide poisoning by:
- checking or changing batteries in carbon monoxide detectors every six months,
- having heating systems, water heaters, and any other gas-, oil-, or coal-burning appliances serviced by qualified technicians every year,
- keeping vents and flues free of debris that can block ventilation lines,
- never leaving motors running in vehicles parked in an enclosed or partially enclosed space, such as a garage,
- never running a motor vehicle, generator, pressure washer, or any gasoline-powered engine less than 20 feet from an open window, door, or vent where exhaust can vent into an enclosed area,
- never using a charcoal grill, hibachi, lantern, or portable camping stove inside a home, tent, or camper, and
- never running a generator, pressure washer, or any gasoline-powered engine inside a basement, garage, or other enclosed structure, even if the doors or windows are open.
Additionally, know the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning:
- nausea and/or vomiting,
- headache and/or dizziness, and/or
- shortness of breath.
If you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning, immediately call 911 or a health care professional. For more information, contact Chief Wayne Whetsell at (540) 955-5113 or wwhetsell@clarkecounty.gov.
