As hunters head up north ahead of the firearm season, Michigan Gas Utilities is urging people to thoroughly inspect heating systems at their cabins.
The goal is to prevent accidental exposure to carbon monoxide.
Invisible and odorless, carbon monoxide is created by improper venting or burning of fuel.
"Check vents, fluids and chimneys that are connected to their heating system and make sure those are free of any debris or animal nests that may have been pushed into there or may have accumulated there over the last few months. Because what those can do is they can trap carbon monoxide inside that hunting cabin, and that can create a very hazardous or even deadly situation," explained Matt Cullen, spokesperson for Michigan Gas Utilities.
It's also important to recognize the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Those include:
- A sudden flu-like illness
- Dizziness, headaches or sleepiness
- Cherry-red lip and a pale complexion
- Nausea or vomiting
- A fluttering heartbeat
- Unconsciousness
Hunters who believe they may have been exposed should move to fresh air as quickly as possible and call 911. For more information and tips from Michigan Gas Utilities, click here.
The American Heart Association is also reminding hunters to be “heart smart” while hunting. They say the heart endures more strain during a hunt than it does during a treadmill workout.
Experts say to refrain from hunting alone and to avoid eating large breakfasts before heading out. They also recommend having a cell phone on hand in case of emergencies and to notify close contacts of intended hunting spots.
Hunting involves heavy lifting, which can lead to a heart attack or stroke. The AHA says to look out for these warning signs:
Heart attack:
- Uncomfortable pressure, squeezing.
- Chest pain lasting more than several minutes or occurs intermittently.
- Pain that spreads to the shoulders, arms and neck, along with sweating, nausea, lightheadedness and shortness of breath.
Stroke:
- Sudden weakness/numbness in face, arm or leg.
- Sudden dizziness.
- Severe headache.
- Slurred speech.
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