Massachusetts Officials remind residents of “silent killer” after family found dead

On Monday night, police were called to make a wellness-check on a single-family home on Cottage Street in Nahant.

Upon arrival, police discovered three deceased adults in the home, all of whom had extreme levels of carbon monoxide.

Carbon monoxide is called a “silent killer” because it is tasteless, colorless, and odorless. Carbon monoxide is released from fireplaces, furnaces, and boilers. That means making a nightly check of flues, and exhaust vents throughout the home especially after snowfall when drifts can create an obstruction.

Initial symptoms include dizziness, nausea, then a headache, vomiting, and shortness of breath before there is a loss of consciousness before death. When exposure is recognized one immediately needs to get fresh air and get medical help.

“A tragedy in Nahant. Our hearts are with the impacted family and the first responders in Nahant.

Carbon monoxide is known as the “silent killer”. Please see this resource by the Massachusetts Department of Fire Services to keep you and your family safe.”-Professional Fire Fighters of Massachusetts.

Professional Fire Fighters of Massachusetts photo.