CO Detector Malfunction Raises False Alarm

Nyack firefighters responded to what they believed was a case of carbon monoxide poisoning early this morning, but the incident turned out to be a false alarm.

A carbon monoxide detector sounded at 71 High Ave. at approximately 7:45 a.m. today. Talk on the police scanner originally reported the incident with one male victim suffering from carbon monoxide poisoning, but authorities soon learned the toxic gas was not present and no one was hurt.

The homeowner said the alarm going off was a malfunction, and is currently having the faulty detector looked into.

Carbon monoxide is an odorless and dangerous gas that can be caused by the improper use of natural gas or propane in the home. Common symptoms include headache, nausea and vomiting.

False alarms are common in Nyack and Piermont, said Michael O'Shea, chief of the Piermont Police Department.

"It's mostly false burglar alarms, but it happens with fire and carbon monoxide alarms, too," he said.

O'Shea noted apartments, multi-family dwellings and townhouses—like those on High Avenue—are often hardwired to the village's fire department to ensure safety.

Carbon monoxide alarms are most common in the winter when homes' windows are closed, he added.