Crime & Safety

Holliston Fire Department Responds to Alarm Activation

A family on Sparrow Lane was able to prevent serious health effects by complying with Nicole's Law which requires carbon monoxide alarms.

Submitted by the Holliston Fire Department

At 8:01 a.m. on Friday, June 29, the responded to investigate a carbon monoxide detector activation on Sparrow Lane.

Upon arrival, Fire Chief Michael Cassidy measured extremely high levels of carbon monoxide in the basement with the department’s CO meter. The house was evacuated, and NStar Gas was notified.

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“This is a perfect example of why carbon monoxide detectors are required in Massachusetts,” explained Cassidy.

Carbon monoxide detectors have been required in the majority of residences in the state since Nicole’s Law (MGL c.148, s 26F 1/2) went into effect on March 31, 2006.

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“Unfortunately, there are still many residents who do not yet have the required life safety equipment in their homes,” continued Cassidy.  “The levels were high enough that serious health effects would have developed within minutes if the resident were not alerted to the danger and continued to be exposed to the colorless and odorless gas."

The source of the carbon monoxide was determined to be a faulty hot water heater, which was shut down and ordered to be replaced.

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