Illinois Department of Natural Resources

The Illinois Conservation Police remind hunters, boaters, and campers to be aware of the dangers of carbon monoxide (CO) produced by portable heaters and generators.

As the weather cools, people often rely on portable heating devices to stay warm during fall hunting and fishing trips. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) urges the use of carbon monoxide detectors in enclosed spaces and recommends equipment be inspected to be sure it is operable prior to use.

“Carbon monoxide detectors should also be used on your boat, cabin or in your camper. CO is colorless and odorless, and often isn’t detected until it’s too late,” Illinois Conservation Police Chief Rafael Gutierrez stated on the IDNR Facebook page

On Nov. 7, a man was hospitalized for CO poisoning after spending the night on his boat docked just off the Illinois River in Jersey County, according to the IDNR. The victim was taken by ambulance to Jersey Community Hospital and later airlifted to St. Louis University Hospital. He is expected to survive. The man’s boat had a leaky exhaust system, and the CO detector was not functioning due to a loose fuse connection.

Many carbon monoxide deaths occur during colder months when windows and doors are locked up at night leaving little or no ventilation inside.

Carbon monoxide accidents can happen in boat cabins because, in most cases, these areas are small enclosures, but there are other places where precautions need to be taken, according to the IDNR.

Small hunting cabins, campers, and hunting blinds where a kerosene heater or internal combustion engine may be used for warmth are also places where people need to take precautions. In cabins or campers that have not been used recently, the IDNR reminds residents to check vents for leaves, nests or other obstructions.

Illinois Conservation Police offer the following tips when using heating devices:

• Make sure your equipment such as generators, internal combustion engines, or any heater that burns petroleum products are vented and maintained properly.
  • Always have a working carbon monoxide detector in any enclosure where people will be.
  • Always use replacement parts or components intended solely for the equipment being used.
  • Make sure the area you are in is ventilated at all times.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, more than 400 people die each year in the United States from carbon monoxide poisoning, while thousands more are sickened by the gas. More than 4,000 are hospitalized. Many victims are overcome in their sleep, unaware of the elevated carbon monoxide levels in their homes.

— Outdoorsmen warned about CO dangers of portable heaters —