Columbia Fire Department responds to carbon monoxide leak in residential housing structure, Jan. 28

(COLUMBIA, MO) ~ Columbia Fire Department Responds to Carbon Monoxide Alarm in Residential Area

On Wednesday, Jan. 28, at 5:21 p.m., the Columbia Fire Department (CFD) received a dispatch call for a carbon monoxide (CO) alarm in the 1300 block of Windsor Street. The first fire company arrived within five minutes to find residents evacuating a large residence hall and carbon monoxide alarms actively sounding.

Upon entering the building with specialized monitoring equipment, firefighters discovered high levels of carbon monoxide present in the entrance hallway's atmosphere. Further searches of the structure revealed maximum readings of 100 ppm in all living areas and floors. The source of the leak was located in the basement, with a maximum CO reading of 300 ppm.

As firefighters worked to ventilate the building, they were alerted to a tunnel connecting the basement to another residence hall. An additional CFD company was self-dispatched to assess this attached structure for potential carbon monoxide spread. Readings between 45 and 70 ppm were found, and all residents were safely evacuated.

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After thorough ventilation of both structures, carbon monoxide readings were reduced to below nine ppm in the initial building and four ppm in the connected one, making it safe for continuous occupation.

Multiple residents were evaluated by medical personnel on site but refused transport to local hospitals. A total of two CFD companies with six personnel responded to this incident.

The Columbia Fire Department would like to remind residents that carbon monoxide alarms are crucial for saving lives. It is recommended that these alarms be installed in a central location outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home, as well as other locations required by applicable laws or codes. Proper placement and mounting height should be followed according to manufacturer's instructions.

In addition, it is important to change carbon monoxide alarm batteries at least twice per year when adjusting clocks for Daylight Saving Time. Monthly testing is also recommended, and alarms should be replaced according to the manufacturer's instructions. In the event of a carbon monoxide alarm sounding, it is crucial to immediately move to a fresh air location outdoors and ensure that all individuals, including pets, are accounted for. For emergencies, call 911, and for non-emergencies, call 311.

The Columbia Fire Department urges residents to take necessary precautions and follow safety guidelines to prevent carbon monoxide incidents in their homes.

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