A routine emergency call turned into a life-saving mission Monday morning when paramedics from Rockland Paramedic Services rescued nine people from carbon monoxide poisoning.
Todd Reinertsen and Scott Nava, working on Medic 1, responded to a residence in Garnerville for a woman experiencing headaches and nausea. While assessing the patient, their portable carbon monoxide detectors—standard equipment for Rockland paramedics for years—began alarming, indicating dangerously high CO levels inside the home.
Realizing the immediate danger, the paramedics swiftly evacuated the residence and determined that all five adults and four children inside were suffering from similar symptoms. Their quick response ensured the safety of the entire family, preventing a potentially fatal outcome.
All nine victims were transported to Montefiore Nyack Hospital for evaluation and treatment, with assistance from Haverstraw Ambulance Corps, Inc. and Congers-Valley Cottage Volunteer Ambulance Corps. The West Haverstraw Fire Department (Department 23) also responded, confirming the presence of carbon monoxide in the home.
This incident highlights the critical role of emergency responders and the importance of carbon monoxide detectors. Thanks to the swift actions of Reinertsen and Nava, a tragedy was averted.
