Catskill Fire Company responded yesterday to a carbon monoxide alarm at a residence where several occupants reported feeling ill. Two fire trucks and Car 2 arrived and determined that the exhaust and intake pipes had become disconnected from an on-demand water heater. The malfunction caused exhaust gases to fill the home. Two residents were transported to the hospital for treatment by private vehicle.

Fire officials emphasized the importance of installing and maintaining working carbon monoxide detectors in homes. Carbon monoxide is a colorless and odorless gas that can cause serious illness or death without warning. Crews noted that the early alert from the detector likely prevented a more serious outcome.