Danbury Firehouse Subject To CO Emergency: DFD

DANBURY, CT — A city firehouse was evacuated last Friday, prompting a reminder that the dangers of carbon monoxide can impact anyone, even fire departments.

According to the Danbury Fire Department, the Engine 24 station at 36 Eagle Road, Danbury, had a "carbon monoxide issue."

The DFD said a CO detector was activated in the living quarters of the station.

What was discovered next proved that CO dangers can hit anyone at any time.

"Firefighters quickly metered the area and found elevated levels of the harmful gas. The cause was determined to be the station's heating system," wrote the DFD.

The system was shut down, and a qualified HVAC contractor was notified, the fire department wrote.

While the situation was quickly rectified, the DFD used the incident as a teaching moment for the community.

"This is a reminder that all homes should have carbon monoxide detectors," wrote the DFD. "They are essential for home safety because CO is a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly."

The DFD said CO is often called the "silent killer," and it is produced by fuel-burning appliances like furnaces, stoves, and water heaters.

Also, generators and vehicles are strong sources of the gas, wrote the fire department.

"Without a detector, it is nearly impossible to know if dangerous levels are present," the DFD said.
"Exposure to high levels of CO can cause symptoms like headaches, dizziness, nausea, and in severe cases, unconsciousness or death."

All of which is why CO detectors are vital.

"A CO detector alerts you immediately, giving you time to exit the structure and call 911," wrote the DFD. "Installing detectors on every level of your home, especially sleeping areas, is critical for early warning.

"Regular maintenance, including testing alarms and changing batteries, ensures they work when needed most. CO detectors are a simple, affordable tool that can save lives."