GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ) – It’s a safety precaution just as important as wearing blaze orange. As one of Wisconsin’s signature traditions returns, Wisconsin Public Service is urging deer hunters to thoroughly inspect their cabins’ heating systems before heading into the woods.
Hunters can take simple steps to avoid dangerous buildups of carbon monoxide. WPS Spokesman Matt Cullen says to make sure any ventilation in your cabin is clear.
“Check vents, flues, or chimneys to see if there is any animal nests or debris that may have built up over time in those openings,” Cullen told WTAQ News. “Remove them so that you allow carbon monoxide and other combustion products to safely vent outdoors instead of accumulating inside that hunting cabin.”
Incomplete burning or improper ventilation of a heating system can cause carbon monoxide to build up indoors. But hunters can take simple steps to avoid a dangerous or even fatal buildup of the invisible, odorless gas.
“Make sure that they are carbon monoxide detectors installed inside that hunting cabin, and if there already are detectors installed, check them and make sure that they are in good working condition,” Cullen said.
Another suggestion is to never use portable electric generators indoors.
It’s also important to learn to recognize the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include:
- A sudden flu-like illness
- Dizziness, headaches or sleepiness
- Cherry-red lips and an unusually pale complexion
- Nausea or vomiting
- A fluttering heartbeat
- Unconsciousness
“Get the affected person outdoors into fresh air right away and contact 911 so that a medical professional can evaluate the affected person for carbon monoxide poisoning,” Cullen said.
WPS also reminds hunters to be aware of power lines and electric distribution equipment near hunting grounds.
“Be aware of power lines or any electric distribution equipment that may be near your hunting grounds, just so that you are hunting as safely as possible,” Cullen added.
For more safety tips, visit the WPS website.
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