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

On Wednesday, Jan. 28, at 5:21 p.m., the Columbia Fire Department (CFD) was dispatched to a carbon monoxide (CO) alarm in the 1300 block of Windsor Street.

CFD's first fire company arrived within five minutes to find residents evacuating a large residence hall and carbon monoxide alarms actively sounding. Firefighters entered the building with specialized monitoring equipment and discovered approximately 100 parts per million (ppm) of CO present in the entrance hallway's atmosphere.

Firefighters then searched the structure for additional carbon monoxide level readings and found a maximum of 100 ppm in all living areas and floors. Firefighters were able to locate the assumed source of the carbon monoxide leak in the basement, with a maximum CO reading of 300 ppm in the immediate space.

While ventilating the structure, firefighters were made aware of a tunnel connecting the basement to another residence hall. An additional CFD company self-dispatched to the incident scene to assess the attached structure for a potential carbon monoxide spread. Readings between 45 and 70 ppm were found in this residence hall and all residents were safely evacuated. After ventilating both structures, firefighters read carbon monoxide readings below nine ppm in the initial structure and four ppm in the connected structure rendering the area safe for continuous occupation.

Multiple residents were medically evaluated; however, all refused transport to local hospitals.

A total of two CFD companies with six personnel responded to this incident.

The Columbia Fire Department reminds residents that carbon monoxide alarms save lives. Carbon monoxide alarms should be installed in a central location outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home and in other locations where required by applicable laws, codes or standards. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for placement and mounting height. Change your carbon monoxide alarm batteries at least twice per year when adjusting your clocks for Daylight Saving Time. Test carbon monoxide alarms at least once a month and replace them according to the manufacturer's instructions. If your carbon monoxide alarm sounds, immediately move to a fresh air location outdoors. Ensure everyone inside the home, including pets, is accounted for. Always call 911 for emergencies or 311 for non-emergencies.

City of Columbia Vision
Columbia is the best place for everyone to live, work, learn and play.

City of Columbia Mission
To serve the public equitably through democratic, transparent and efficient government.