Edgar Co. man, dog found dead from carbon monoxide poisoning on Christmas Day

BROCTON, Ill. (WAND) - A man and his dog were found dead from carbon monoxide poisoning on Christmas Day, according to the Edgar County Coroner.

Coroner Scott Barrett said a Brocton man was found dead at his home on East Third St. on Wednesday evening.

The Edgar County Sheriff’s Department was called just after 6 p.m.

A caller said she had been unable to reach her brother by phone all day and was worried. She requested a wellness check.

The man was pronounced dead at the scene. His German Shepherd dog was also found dead in the home.

The coroner requested the Brocton Fire Department be dispatched to the scene to test for the presence of carbon monoxide. Testing found the presence of fatal levels of carbon monoxide inside the home.

It is not clear if the man had a carbon monoxide detector in his home.

Carbon monoxide is a non-irritating, odorless, colorless gas, according to the Illinois Department of Health. It's the leading cause of poisoning deaths in the U.S.

Illinois law requires some Illinois homes have at least one operating carbon monoxide alarm within 15 feet of every room use for sleeping.

IDPH says some symptoms of CO poisoning include nausea, lethargy, and malaise. As exposure time increases, the symptoms can become more severe. Additional symptoms can include irritability, chest pain, fatigue, diminished judgment, and vision reduction.

If you suspect CO poisoning, leave the area immediately and call 911. Additional CO poisoning resources can be found here.

IDPH tips to keep your home safe:

Periodically check gas appliances for proper operation and ventilation
Make sure flues, chimneys, and vents are clear of debris and working properly
Install CO monitors in the home and check them regularly
Do not use unvented space heaters, gas stoves, charcoal grills, or Sterno-type fuels as sources of heat
Check your car's exhaust; do not run your car in a garage with all of the doors closed
Use paint strippers that do not contain methylene chloride