The tragic death of three marines from carbon monoxide poisoning brings to light the danger of the “invisible killer” gas leaking from car engines and everyday appliances. Officials say the deaths of the three marines, including one from Wisconsin, seems accidental. They were found unresponsive in a car outside a gas station in North Carolina. Fond du Lac County Public Health Officer Kim Mueller says each year in the United States more than 100,000 people visit the emergency room due to accidental CO poisoning, and at least 420 die. Signs of CO poisoning are often flu-like and include headache, dizziness, upset stomach, chest pain or confusion. To avoid carbon monoxide poisoning in your vehicle, the CDC recommends having your exhaust system checked every year, as even a small exhaust leak can lead to CO buildup inside your car or truck. If your vehicle has a tailgate, open the vents or windows after opening the tailgate to make sure air is moving through.
