High Carbon Monoxide Levels Found At Stamford's Yerwood Center: FD

STAMFORD, CT — High levels of carbon monoxide were found at the Yerwood Center on Aug. 1, according to the Stamford Fire Department.

Firefighters responded to the center at 90 Fairfield Ave. shortly after 5 p.m. and found all occupants had been evacuated by staff members, the SFD said in a news release. However, 13 people were checked out by fire and EMS personnel for short-term exposure to carbon monoxide, and one was taken to the hospital for further evaluation.

There were no injuries reported to firefighters.

"Firefighters began to immediately assess the situation and found high levels of carbon monoxide throughout the building," the SFD said. "Additional fire companies responded to the scene to provide assistance in determining the origin of the carbon monoxide and to assist with ventilating the building."

Overall, 24 firefighters responded to the incident, which is now under investigation by the Stamford Fire Marshal's Office.

"We are very grateful to the coordinated and rapid evacuation of all occupants from inside the Yerwood Center by staff members. Their quick action to safely evacuate the building limited exposure and prevented additional injuries," said SFD Deputy Chief Matt Palmer.

Carbon monoxide, often referred to as a quiet killer, is a colorless, odorless and deadly gas produced by the incomplete burning of fossil fuels.

These fuels can be natural gas, oil, kerosene, coal or wood. Carbon monoxide replaces oxygen in the blood, interfering with the transport of oxygen needed by the cells in the body.

Carbon monoxide poisoning symptoms can include headache, fatigue, dizziness and nausea. Higher concentration of carbon monoxide can cause a loss of consciousness, brain damage and death.