The Woodstock Fire/Rescue District announced they have become the first fire department in McHenry County to begin carrying lifesaving cyanide poisoning treatment kits.
The Woodstock Fire/Rescue District said last week that they have purchased CYANOKITs and stocked them on their fire apparatus.
The lifesaving kits are designed to treat cyanide poisoning, which is a serious risk associated with smoke inhalation during fires, fire officials said.
Cyanide exposure can be fatal and the cyano kits provide rapid and effective treatment to improve survival rates for victims.
“Our dedicated team has undergone training to ensure the swift and effective use of these kits,” the fire district said.
CYANOKIT said that even though carbon monoxide is a well-known toxin in fire smoke, cyanide can be an overlooked danger.
Cyanide is typically released when everyday items found in most homes and businesses combust, making smoke inhalation the most common cause of acute cyanide poisoning, the company said.
“By adding this critical tool to our emergency response arsenal, we’re reinforcing our commitment to an aggressive approach to the safety of our community,” the fire district said.