East Meadow Firefighter Featured on Weather Channel Morning Show

A longtime East Meadow firefighter recently appeared on the Weather Channel's "Wake Up With Al" morning show during a segment that focused on the proper use of carbon monoxide detectors and the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Ex-Chief John Priest appeared on the show on behalf of the Nassau County Firefighters Museum and Education Center where he serves as a fire safety instructor. He also discussed the many myths and facts about the silent killer.

More than 500 people die each year due to unintentional injuries involving CO, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

Already in this 2013 heating season, East Meadow firefighters have responded to a "few true emergencies" where concerning levels of carbon monoxide gas were detected, according to a fire department reminder issued to residents.

This time of the year presents a significant risk increase as heating systems are now operating in the homes, and the cooler temperatures force homeowners to close the windows making their homes more airtight than warmer seasons, said firefighter John J.O'Brien Sr.

To learn more about keeping safe from carbon monoxide, click here.