Fontana, CA – Six Hospitalized Due to Carbon Monoxide Exposure on Athol St.

Fontana, CA (August 12, 2025) – Six people, including a child, were hospitalized early Monday after dangerously high levels of carbon monoxide were detected inside a Fontana apartment. The incident occurred on the 16500 block of Athol Street around 3:49 a.m. on August 11, when emergency crews responded to a report of a patient in cardiac arrest. Upon arrival, firefighters discovered one resident unconscious and unresponsive, but not in cardiac arrest.

As first responders treated the individual, they identified additional residents suffering from symptoms such as vomiting, weakness, altered consciousness, and unresponsiveness. Suspecting hazardous conditions, firefighters evacuated the apartment and called for the San Bernardino County Fire Department's Hazardous Materials (HazMat) team to perform air quality monitoring.

In total, six individuals ranging from ages 5 to 64 were triaged, treated, and transported by AMR to nearby hospitals. The conditions of the patients ranged from stable to critical. The Fontana Police Department assisted with evacuating neighboring units as a precautionary measure. A Southern California Gas Company representative also responded to the scene. HazMat testing later confirmed the presence of dangerously high carbon monoxide levels in the apartment, though the exact source remains under investigation.

Carbon monoxide is a colorless and odorless gas that can be fatal if inhaled in high concentrations. Authorities are urging residents to install and maintain working carbon monoxide detectors to avoid similar incidents in the future.

Our thoughts are with those involved in this accident, and we wish them a full and speedy recovery.

Public Safety Reminder: How to Protect Yourself from Carbon Monoxide Exposure

Carbon monoxide exposure can be dangerous and life-threatening. Here are several key measures to ensure your safety:

• Act Quickly: If your CO alarm sounds or you suspect exposure, immediately move everyone outside to fresh air and call 911 for help.

• Install CO Detectors: Place battery-operated or plug-in detectors with a battery backup outside each sleeping area and on every level of your home.

• Test Regularly: Test your detectors monthly and replace the batteries at least once a year. Replace the entire unit every 5-7 years or as per the manufacturer's instructions.

• Never Use Gas Appliances for Heat: Do not use ovens, stoves, or grills for heating inside the home.

• Vent All Fuel-Burning Appliances: Ensure that appliances such as furnaces, water heaters, fireplaces, and wood stoves are properly vented and maintained by a qualified technician annually.

• Avoid Idling Vehicles in Garages: Even with the garage door open, avoid running vehicles inside as carbon monoxide can accumulate quickly.

• Know the Symptoms: Watch out for signs of carbon monoxide poisoning, including headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, weakness, chest pain, and confusion.

If you or someone you know has been affected by carbon monoxide poisoning or other hazardous exposures, it’s crucial to understand your rights and seek legal guidance. The impact of such incidents can be long-lasting, both physically and emotionally. Legal support can help victims secure compensation for medical treatment and any other financial burdens caused by the exposure.

At Countrywide Trial Lawyers, we offer experienced legal representation for individuals injured due to hazardous conditions. Our team is ready to help you understand your legal rights and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.

If you or someone you know has been harmed by hazardous exposure, contact Countrywide Trial Lawyers today at 844-844-9119 for a free consultation with our premises liability attorneys. We are here to support you through this challenging time and help you recover both physically and financially.