Man found dead in fish house

[Lee Borgersen]

                                      Man found dead in fish house
1/27/15

WASECA, Minn. – We are learning more about an Austin man who was found dead in his fish house Thursday in Waseca. The Ramsey County Medical Examiner’s office says 41-year-old William Blom died from carbon monoxide poisoning.

Safety officials say this sad news can come as a reminder about how to be safe while out on the lake.

The Albert Lea Fire Department says a common thing they see is people storing their propane tanks and other fuel sources inside the house overnight to keep them warm. They say that can lead to leaks and other safety issues.

They said it is also important to make sure you have proper ventilation for your heaters.

“A crack in the door will usually do pretty well. Most of the newer fish houses are built with some sort of vents in the end of them,” said Deputy Chief Jeff Laskowske with the Albert Lea Fire Department, “Just make sure to follow manufacturer’s recommendations on what they suggest for their heater to make sure you’ve got the venting right.”

Besides safety with your house itself, Laskowske reminds anglers to check ice thickness before heading out to make sure it is at a safe level.

Blom’s death was ruled an accident. He was found by his father shortly after noon Thursday.