Suspected carbon monoxide poisoning claims life of Lincoln woman*

A Lincoln woman and her two pets died of suspected carbon monoxide poisoning in a home west of town, Nov. 13.

According to Lewis and Clark County Sheriff/Coroner Leo Dutton, dispatch received a call at 2:29 p.m. Friday about a possible death in the 3700 block of Highway 200. The deputy who responded found Lincoln resident Barbra French, 65, deceased.

French’s cat was also found dead. Her dog, though found alive, has since died as well.

According to Dutton, professional readings in the home showed very high levels of carbon monoxide but further details couldn’t be released due to the ongoing investigation. Likewise, the source of the suspected poisoning is still under investigation, but Dutton noted there are indications the furnace was undergoing repair.

Carbon monoxide poisoning is a leading cause of accidental poisoning in the Unites States.

According to the Mayo Clinic, “carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless and tasteless gas produced by burning gasoline, wood, propane, charcoal or other fuel. Improperly ventilated appliances and engines, particularly in a tightly sealed or enclosed space, may allow carbon monoxide to accumulate to dangerous levels.”

During CO poisoning, oxygen in red blood cells is replaced by carbon monoxide, which prevents oxygen from reaching tissues and organs. It causes symptoms such as headaches, weakness, dizziness, confusion, blurred vision and loss of consciousness. CO poisoning is considered particularly dangerous for people who are sleeping or intoxicated, since they might not know there is a problem.

Having a properly installed and functioning CO detector is widely considered one of the best preventative measures to avoid accidental poisoning. People should also ensure their heating systems and gas- or oil-burning appliances are maintained and operating properly; that they are correctly vented; that vents aren’t blocked by snow; and that chimneys of wood burning stoves or fireplaces are cleaned.

*This includes a headline correction to reflect the fact an investigation is still ongoing.