Lonnie Wimmer attended a birthday party hosted at River Ridge Tap House in Clemmons, North Carolina this weekend.
He and his friends had been eating happily when Wimmer began to feel nauseous and developed a headache. He wasn’t the only one.
Other patrons around him, and others in his party group, were also experiencing the same symptoms.
But while some assumed the restaurant’s food had gone bad, Wimmer immediately called the local Lewisville Fire Department – where he worked as a firefighter.
When they picked up his call, he said there were signs of a dangerous carbon monoxide leak at the restaurant.
Ambulances were immediately deployed and the restaurant completely evacuated as professionals investigated the building.
Wimmer’s instinct had been correct.
About 30 people were exhibiting symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, of whom 16 had to be hospitalized for treatment.
“Significant levels” of the colorless, odorless gas had been detected in the building because the restaurant’s heating unit had started leaking. The unit has since been repaired the restaurant safely reopened.
Lewisville Fire Department Assistant Chief Steve Williams said to news, “Even though it was a fairly large incident, I think [Wimmer’s] early recognition prevented it from being more serious than it could have been for those exposed to the carbon monoxide.”
Carbon monoxide is found in the fumes of burning fuel, like those created by engines or even gas fireplaces at home. If too much is inhaled, it can cause worse than upset stomachs and dizziness; this gas poisoning could be fatal.
Everyone involved in this incident is extremely grateful for Wimmer’s service, and the family of everyone who was present is relieved to know that they will be able to celebrate the holidays with all of their loved ones safe at home.
