Two exposed to high amounts of carbon monoxide in south Wichita

Two people were hospitalized after they were exposed to toxic amounts of carbon monoxide early Tuesday evening, a Sedgwick County dispatch supervisor said.

The pair was operating a portable generator inside of a residence in the 2200 block of South Holyoke Court about 5:20 p.m. when the poisonous gas filled the building, near Hillside and Pawnee. One person sustained critical injuries, the dispatch supervisor said.

The other was taken to the hospital in serious condition.

Wichita Fire Department and Sedgwick County Emergency Medical Services responded to the 911 call. A hazardous materials unit was also on scene for about 30 minutes, the dispatch supervisor said.

Carbon monoxide is an invisible, odorless gas produced when fuels such as oil, gasoline or coal burn. Exposure symptoms mimic signs of other illnesses, often leading victims to think they have the flu or food poisoning, according to a posting on Sedgwick County Fire District 1’s website.

Moderate and high levels of exposure can be deadly.

Symptoms include shortness of breath, mild nausea and headaches, dizziness and light-headedness. Those exposed to carbon monoxide should seek a source of fresh air immediately and call 911, according to the fire district’s website.

The department also suggests operating generators outside and at least 10 feet away from buildings.