BRIDGEPORT, Conn. — A generator running the basement of an apartment building has sent 21 people to the hospital with possible carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, according to Bridgeport firefighters.
The Bridgeport Fire Dept. was called to a building on Oak Street around 2:45 a.m. Saturday for a carbon monoxide call.
Some residents were showing symptoms of CO poisoning, according to firefighters. There were 21 residents who were taken to area hospitals for evaluation, officials said.
A generator was found running in the basement after the building's power was shut down due to a recent bus fire nearby, firefighters said.
The generator caused the high levels of carbon monoxide, which measured around 2100 parts per million, firefighters said. That's enough to cause headaches, dizziness, nausea, and confusion and cause unconsciousness within minutes and death within two hours of constant exposure, according to a chart from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
Bridgeport firefighters remind residents to run generators outside and away from enclosed spaces. CO is colorless and odorless.
The Bridgeport Fire Dept. encourages residents to call them at 203-335-8835 to have a free smoke alarm installed in their homes.
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