A suspected carbon monoxide leak at the Building Blocks Learning Center in Kittery, Maine, led to the hospitalization of 11 individuals, including seven children, on Wednesday, February 12. Authorities responded promptly to the emergency, ensuring that all children and staff members were safely evacuated.
Emergency Response and Hospitalization
At approximately 3:30 p.m. ET, Kittery police received a distress call reporting a potential carbon monoxide leak at the facility. At the time, the daycare center housed 27 children and 10 staff members. Emergency responders from the Kittery Fire Department, Stewart’s Ambulance, and the Kittery Police Department swiftly arrived at the scene, with additional units deployed for support.
Initially, officials reported that seven individuals were transported to hospitals with non-life-threatening injuries. However, Portsmouth Regional Hospital in New Hampshire later confirmed it had received a total of 11 patients, comprising seven children and four adults. Authorities have not yet clarified whether all hospitalized individuals were daycare attendees.
Children who were not hospitalized were safely reunited with their parents outside the facility. The Maine State Fire Marshal’s office has launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the suspected leak.
Carbon Monoxide: The Silent Killer
Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that poses severe health risks. According to the Cleveland Clinic, carbon monoxide poisoning claims over 400 lives in the U.S. annually and sends approximately 100,000 people to emergency rooms each year. The toxic gas is produced by burning fuels such as gasoline, wood, and natural gas. Without adequate ventilation, exposure can lead to symptoms including headaches, dizziness, nausea, confusion, and, in severe cases, death.
Investigation and Ongoing Concerns
The Building Blocks Learning Center has yet to release an official statement regarding the incident. Meanwhile, authorities continue to investigate potential sources of the leak and whether proper safety measures were in place.
Sources By Agencies
