4 people die of suspected carbon monoxide poisoning in New Hampshire

Four people have died of suspected carbon monoxide poisoning at a New Hampshire residence, according to officials who reported the victims were found dead on Christmas Day.

The Wakefield, NH Police Department responded to 2962 Province Lake Road for a welfare check on Wednesday around 4:21 p.m.

When the police arrived, they found four people who were dead. Investigators from the New Hampshire Office of the Fire Marshal were asked to respond to the scene.

The names of the four victims, all adults, have been withheld pending notification of next of kin.

“Although the investigation remains active and ongoing, at this time, investigators believe the victims died as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning,” New Hampshire officials wrote in a statement.

Autopsies were scheduled to be performed by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner on Thursday to confirm the cause and manner of death for each of the victims.

“State Fire Marshal Toomey would like to remind everyone of the importance of having working carbon monoxide alarms in homes,” officials wrote. “If an alarm is activated, residents should exit their homes immediately and call 9-1-1. Anyone with questions about fire safety and carbon monoxide should contact their local fire department or the New Hampshire Office of the Fire Marshal.”

Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas which can cause sudden illness and death if inhaled, according to the CDC. It claims the lives of hundreds of people every year and sickens thousands more.

Many household items, including gas and oil furnaces, portable generators, and charcoal grills produce this poisonous gas.

“Install battery-operated or backup CO detectors near every sleeping area in your home,” states the CDC. “Check your CO detector batteries when you change the time of your clocks each spring and fall to make sure they are working properly… Replace your CO detector following the manufacturer’s instructions or every 5 years. Set a reminder on your smartphone. or on another device’s calendar when you purchase and install the detector.”