HANOVER, Pa. — Firefighters rescued two people suffering from the effects of carbon monoxide exposure from a home in Hanover Sunday afternoon, according to Hanover Area Fire & Rescue.
At 1:53 p.m. Sunday, volunteers from the fire department responded to the 400 block of Pleasant Street, where they removed two unconscious victims from the home, the fire department said.
The home was filled with high levels of carbon monoxide, according to the fire department.
Both victims were immediately transported to a local hospital for treatment. They are believed to be in serious condition, the fire department said.
Firefighters ventilated the home to clear it of carbon monoxide and continuously metered the home to ensure it was cleared.
The home's residents were using a gas-powered pressure washer in the basement, which led to the buildup of carbon monoxide, the fire department said.
"Never use gas-powered equipment inside of your home or any enclosed space, including a garage," the fire department said. "This kind of equipment will generate dangerous levels of carbon monoxide, which will quickly overwhelm you. Carbon monoxide is an odorless and colorless silent killer, you will not detect it on your own."
Hanover Fire & Rescue said gas-powered heaters and generators are commonly used this time of year. To avoid the risk of carbon monoxide buildup, homeowners should use these types of equipment outside the home at all times.
"Even partial ventilation, such as opening a door or window, will not prevent a dangerous build up," the fire department said. "Additionally, strongly consider having carbon monoxide alarms in your house, to alert you before conditions become dangerous."
