Carbon Monoxide Response

The Johnson City Fire Department responded to a Carbon Monoxide detector activation at 711 N. Mountain View Circle on January 14, 2009 at approximately 11:51 am. Upon arrival the fire fighters deployed a Multi-gas detector unit called an M-40. The M-40 detects the presence of Carbon Monoxide and other gases. Upon entering the residence, the M-40 detector indicated a rapid increase in Carbon Monoxide levels as high as 400 parts per million. The EPA allows only 9 parts per million during a eight hour period. This level is extremely dangerous.

 

 The presence of such a high level of Carbon Monoxide prompted the fire fighters to wear breathing apparatus to limit exposure to the gas. For the safety of the fire fighters working in such a hazardous environment, additional Fire Department Units and Atmos Gas were called to the scene. Fire fighters began to survey the residence, starting with likely Carbon Monoxide sources, such as gas appliances (stoves, dryers, heaters). During the survey in the basement near a Radon Evacuation Unit, Carbon Monoxide levels reached higher than 1000 parts per million. This is a extremely high level of Carbon Monoxide. Depending on the levels and duration of exposure of Carbon Monoxide, symptoms may include headache, dizziness, heart palpitations, weakness, confusion, nausea, and even convulsions, eventual unconsciousness and death. 

 

A Radon Evacuation unit was installed in the basement with the outside exhaust vent improperly located next to the gas furnace vent. The location of both exhaust vents, being so close to each other, allowed the Radon unit vent to draw the Carbon Monoxide from the gas furnace vent and circulate it throughout the home. The Radon Unit was removed from the home by a HVAC contractor. The home was ventilated using large fans and by opening windows and doors.

 

All gas appliances venting to the outside should vent away from each other to prevent wind and natural air currents from pushing the Carbon Monoxide back into your home.

 

Sgt. Mark Beasley

Johnson City Fire Department

423-975-2840