New Canaan Fire Department responded to two carbon monoxide (CO) incidents on Thursday that were caused by contractors using gasoline power equipment inside of a structure.
The first incident was at 2:30 pm on Oenoke Ridge. The contractor was using a saw to cut the concrete floor in the basement. About 30 minutes into the operation the CO detectors in the home were activated. New Canaan Firefighters responded and determined that the levels were above acceptable level. The home was ventilated to safe levels. A 2-week-old infant was brought to the pediatrician for evaluation.
The second occurred at 4:30 pm at 105 Elm St. A contractor was using a power washer in the basement of the restaurant. The contractor was overcome by the CO, treated by NCPD and NCEMS. The fire department metered and determined the was over 1000 ppm of CO in the basement. The firefighters performed a search of the building to ensure no other occupants were in the building and ventilated until all reading were back to zero.
New Canaan Fire Department requested mutual aid from Norwalk Fire Department for additional gas meters and ventilation fans. Sole and Black Bird restaurants were closed for the evening.
Operating gasoline powered equipment in or near your living areas is dangerous. Resident should ensure there are properly operating carbon monoxide detectors on all level of your home. For a complementary residential home inspection call the New Canaan Fire Marshal’s office 203-594-3030. Residents should sign up for Community Connect to provide basic information about their home to assist responding firefighters. https://www.communityconnect.io/info/ct-townofnewcanaan
