Firefighters discuss carbon monoxide safety after Bahamas tourists die

By Judy J. Beasley Last updated Oct 10, 2022

ROGERSVILLE, Mo. (KY3) – Autopsies have determined that the three Americans found dead at a Bahamas resort this month died of carbon monoxide poisoning.

“When you’re exposed to carbon monoxide, most of the time you don’t realize you’re exposed to it until it’s too late,” Logan-Rogersville Asst. Fire Chief Tim Clarkson.

Firefighters say carbon monoxide is a silent killer, but it’s more than silent.

“Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless and tasteless gas,” Clarkson added.

Firefighters say the gas came from a combustion engine or an open flame.

“When you’re exposed to carbon monoxide, your baseline symptoms may be a dull headache, nausea, fatigue, vomiting,” Clarkson described.

“This is exactly what happened to the three Americans who died at Sandals Emerald Bay Resort in the Bahamas. Firefighters say a carbon monoxide detector is the best way to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. They say It’s good to have a detector at home, but it doesn’t hurt to have one outside.

“It would definitely be a question that when you’re going to book any of these places like an Airbnb, or even hotels or motels, ask,” Clarkson said. “Do you have carbon monoxide detectors?”

If you go to Airbnb’s website, the company says it can provide free detectors to eligible hosts. The company also says hosts should mention if they already have detectors on the list.

“If they don’t, that would still be an option, or maybe something you throw in your suitcase and take with you,” Clarkson said.

Carbon monoxide detectors are not required in Missouri homes. Airbnb says it encourages hosts to have detectors and advises hosts to check their local requirements.

Carbon monoxide poisoning doesn’t just happen indoors either. Firefighters say boaters should turn off their engines when bathing. The engine will emit carbon monoxide through the exhaust. If you are grilling with charcoal, make sure the grill is in an open space and not an enclosed space.

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