A family of four from rural Horace, North Dakota, had a frightening Christmas Eve when they had to be rushed to the hospital for carbon monoxide poisoning. The scary incident unfolded earlier this morning when a family member began feeling sick and called for help.
Emergency responders arrived at their home around 10:30 a.m. and quickly realized the situation was serious. One of the children was slipping in and out of consciousness, and it became clear that everyone in the house—both parents and two kids—was showing signs of carbon monoxide exposure.
After investigating, responders discovered extremely high levels of carbon monoxide near the family’s fireplace. Thankfully, the Cass County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that the family is now recovering, but the ordeal serves as an important reminder.
Authorities are urging everyone to double-check their home ventilation systems and make sure they have carbon monoxide detectors installed. These simple precautions could be life-saving, especially during the colder months when fireplaces and heaters are in frequent use.
This close call highlights how critical it is to stay alert to the dangers of carbon monoxide, a colorless and odorless gas that can strike without warning. Stay safe and take steps to protect your loved ones this winter season.