HUMBOLDT — The Reid-Thompson Public Library in Humboldt temporarily closed its doors following an air quality test determining 75PPM of carbon monoxide.
The test was conducted on the morning of Jan. 6 by Mike Kwasnica, Humboldt’s fire chief, after a staff member reported an odd smell.
Following the test a plumber was contacted who inspected the property and identified the problem to come from a cracked heat exchanger on one of their three furnaces.
The identified furnace was shut off following the inspection.
The library will reopen once an air quality test determines the property is clear.
Carbon monoxide reduces the body's ability to carry oxygen in their blood. Exposure to the gas can cause carbon monoxide poisoning (CO poisoning) and can be detrimental to an individual’s health.
At low levels, effects include flu-like symptoms, such as tiredness, headaches, shortness of breath, impaired motor functions, such as muscle weakness and partial or total loss of function of a limb.
