A federal prison camp in Sumterville, Florida, was evacuated on Sunday following a suspected carbon monoxide exposure incident.
The incident, which occurred in the early morning hours, resulted in two employees and three inmates being hospitalized.
The Sumterville Coleman Satellite Prison Camp, part of the Federal Correctional Complex, Coleman, had recently made headlines when former sports doctor Larry Nassar was attacked there.
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by the complex, including staffing shortages.
At approximately 2:45 am on Sunday, an incident involving carbon monoxide exposure prompted the evacuation of the Sumterville Coleman Satellite Prison Camp.
The minimum-security facility houses more than 450 adult inmates and is part of the larger Federal Correctional Complex, Coleman.
Prompt action was taken by prison employees, who contacted emergency medical services and isolated the affected area to mitigate the risk of exposure.
Following the discovery of the carbon monoxide leak, prison officials swiftly implemented measures to treat those affected and safeguard the remaining inmates.
Bureau of Prisons officials reassured the public that no other individuals in custody were injured and emphasized that public safety was never compromised.
The evacuated individuals were promptly transported to local hospitals for necessary medical attention. The exact cause of the carbon monoxide exposure is currently under investigation.
The Federal Correctional Complex, Coleman, has been grappling with staffing shortages, which have presented ongoing challenges in maintaining the facility’s operations and ensuring the safety of both staff and inmates.
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Prioritizing Safety Measures to Safeguard Prisoners and Staff
The recent attack on Larry Nassar within the same complex has drawn attention to the complex’s security concerns.
It is imperative that these issues are thoroughly addressed to prevent further incidents and ensure the well-being of those within the correctional system.
Carbon monoxide is a colorless and odorless gas that can be lethal in high concentrations.
It is typically produced by the incomplete combustion of carbon-based fuels, such as natural gas, gasoline, and coal.
Exposure to carbon monoxide can lead to symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, and even death in severe cases.
Prisons and correctional facilities must maintain stringent safety protocols to prevent incidents like this and ensure the well-being of both staff and inmates.
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