A Wake-Up Call: Check Your Alarms

(SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb.) — A malfunctioning furnace sent smoke throughout a Scottsbluff home Friday morning and resulted in carbon monoxide readings exceeding 700 parts per million, prompting an emergency response from Scottsbluff Fire Department crews.

Firefighters were dispatched at approximately 8:41 a.m. to a residence in the 1100 block of Avenue F after a report of smoke coming from the floor registers.

Engine One, Engine Three and Scottsbluff Two responded. Upon arrival, Engine Three reported no visible smoke coming from the exterior of the home, but light smoke was present inside. The lone occupant had safely evacuated before firefighters arrived.

An investigation determined the furnace motor had burned up, causing smoke to circulate throughout the home.

During the response, crews also discovered smoke alarms inside the residence, but the batteries had been removed and the alarms were expired.

At 8:46 a.m., Scottsbluff Fire received a separate request from Black Hills Energy to assist with ventilating the home due to the presence of carbon monoxide.

A Black Hills Energy technician informed firefighters that carbon monoxide readings inside the residence exceeded 700 parts per million. Occupants reported the furnace had been acting up for at least a week.

According to the fire department, exposure to carbon monoxide levels of 800 parts per million can cause dizziness, nausea, convulsions and unresponsiveness within an hour.

Fortunately, the occupant was able to evacuate, and the situation did not result in a more serious outcome.

A carbon monoxide alarm has since been installed in the home, and the residents are working to replace the furnace.

Following the incident, Scottsbluff Fire Department reminded residents to check their smoke and carbon monoxide alarms to ensure they are installed, functioning properly and not expired.

Homes with gas-burning appliances should have carbon monoxide alarms. Depending on the model, CO alarms typically expire seven years after the manufacture or installation date.

Fire officials also stressed the importance of maintaining working smoke alarms, noting that missing batteries or expired devices can leave occupants without an important warning during an emergency.

Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms can save lives. Fire officials encourage residents to take a few minutes to check their alarms and make sure their homes are protected.