Some residents may receive carbon monoxide detectors
Councilman Rory Riddler, Ward 1, asked staff members to add carbon monoxide detectors to the city's existing smoke detector program.
Riddler said he was prompted to bring up the issue after hearing about a St. Louis woman dying from carbon monoxide poisoning during the recent winter storm.Tina Pearl, 50, from Glen Carbon, was found dead in an upstairs bedroom while her husband, William, was found unconscious in a bathroom. A generator that was used in their garage had filled their home with carbon monoxide.
But the councilman said the matter also is important to him after he had a personal experience with the affects of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Riddler said about two years ago when he worked with the St. Charles Ambulance District, he came across photos of a family who had died from carbon monoxide.
"It made an impact on me," Riddler said. "It's really a dangerous killer."
At-risk individuals could include seniors, especially those living alone, and people who live in older homes, Riddler said.
Fire Chief Ernie Rhodes said firefighters often find homes without smoke detectors when they respond to fires.
"We identify those who have no smoke detectors and give them out, or you can come get one," Rhodes said. "We give out about 200 each year."
Rhodes estimates carbon monoxide detectors would cost the city anywhere from $18 to $44 each. He said he recommends battery operated ones.
"I think it's affordable, and the idea makes sense," Rhodes said. "Five hundred people die per year and 15,000 are hospitalized."
The council amended the 2007 budget to include $15,000 in start up costs for carbon monoxide detectors. The budget is up for a final vote at the Dec. 19 meeting.
Rhodes said some cities are giving out dual combo units that include both a smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector.
Council President Bob Kneemiller, Ward 4, said he would be willing to use part of his council discretionary funds if needed.
Rachel Kaatmann can be contacted at rkaatmann@yourjournal.com
