The Somerville Fire Department recently responded to a Central Street address to investigate a fire alarm sounding. Upon arrival, firefighters discovered a carbon monoxide detector activated in the basement of the home. Using meters, firefighters detected elevated levels of carbon monoxide. A rotted vent pipe from the furnace to the chimney was discovered as the source of the hazard. Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas which can build up indoors and poison occupants who breathe it.

The carbon monoxide detector which alerted the elderly occupant to the elevated levels of carbon monoxide, had been installed by Somerville firefighters in July,2014. It was done as part of a combination of a federal and state grant program run in close collaboration with the Somerville Council on Aging. Over 200 homes occupied by elderly residents were visited by firefighters, inspected for fire safety and provided with smoke and carbon monoxide alarms which were installed free of charge.

The Somerville Fire Department continues to collaborate with the Somerville Council on Aging regarding fire safety for our senior residents. The Somerville Fire Department was recently awarded $2930.00 from the state as a Senior SAFE grant. Any Somerville senior resident in need of smoke or carbon monoxide detectors should contact Debra Higgins at the Council on Aging. She can be contacted at 617-625-6600 x2321 or by email at dhiggins@somervillema.gov

— Somerville Fire Dept