ST. GEORGE — Five people were hospitalized Wednesday following a report of a possible carbon monoxide poisoning.
At approximately 12:45 a.m. on Wednesday, the National Park Service Glen Canyon Regional Communications Center received a call from Kane County Dispatch about a possible carbon monoxide poisoning incident on a privately owned vessel in Face Canyon, according to a joint media release issued by Coconino County Sheriff’s Office and the park service.
Face Canyon is located near buoy 24 on Lake Powell within Glen Canyon National Recreation area and encompasses both the state of Arizona and Utah.
This incident happened on the Arizona side of the canyon within Coconino County.
Glen Canyon National Recreation Area rangers responded immediately and provided medical support on scene.
Initial reports were of four patients suffering from carbon monoxide poisoning onboard a houseboat. Upon arrival, a total of 21 patients were identified, according to the news release.
Personnel from Classic Air Medical, which dispatched three medical helicopters and Intermountain Life Flight, which dispatched two medical helicopters, also assisted at the scene. Five people (three adults and two juveniles) were flown to the St. George Regional Hospital for further treatment. The remaining 16 patients were treated and released.
The source of the carbon monoxide is currently under investigation by the park service and Sheriff’s Office.
This is the third carbon monoxide-related incident responded to by Glen Canyon National Recreation Area Rangers this month.
Authorities remind all boaters to be aware of the dangers of carbon monoxide and ensure onboard detectors are operable prior to embarking on a trip. Carbon monoxide is an odorless, tasteless gas that can cause death when inhaled. Symptoms of exposure can include headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting and confusion. A person who is sleeping can die from carbon monoxide poisoning before recognizing symptoms.
Boats can collect dangerous levels of carbon monoxide anytime fuel-burning, engines or appliances are running.
More safety information is available here and here.