Ocean City emergency responders assessed 13 individuals and transported four to a local hospital following a carbon monoxide detector alarm at the Ashore Resort & Beach Club, located at 10100 Coastal Highway. The incident occurred around 11 a.m. Friday when the Ocean City Fire Department received a call regarding the activation of the detector.
Due to the high number of people requiring evaluation, additional Emergency Medical Services (EMS) support was requested. Among those taken to the hospital, elevated levels of carbon monoxide were detected in their blood. However, their current medical conditions have not yet been disclosed.
Investigations into the source of the carbon monoxide exposure are ongoing, involving building inspectors, the fire marshal’s office, and utility officials. Carbon monoxide is a hazardous gas that is both odorless and colorless and can emanate from common household appliances that burn fuel, like stoves, grills, and fireplaces. Symptoms of exposure can range from headaches and dizziness to more severe reactions, including vomiting, flu-like symptoms, and potentially fatal outcomes in severe cases, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
As authorities continue to gather more information, residents and visitors alike are advised to remain vigilant about the presence of carbon monoxide in enclosed spaces. Keeping working detectors in place is vital for safety, making timely responses to alarms crucial.
The community’s rapid response and the ongoing investigation highlight the importance of safety measures in public facilities.