Carbon Monoxide Leak at Yonkers Senior Facility Sparks Urgent Reminder

A recent carbon monoxide (CO) leak at a senior living facility in Yonkers forced an emergency evacuation, highlighting a silent yet deadly threat: carbon monoxide poisoning. This event serves as a serious reminder that carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can be fatal if inhaled in high concentrations. Seniors are especially vulnerable to its effects, making awareness and prevention more critical than ever.

What is Carbon Monoxide?

Carbon monoxide is produced when fuels such as gas, oil, wood, or coal do not burn completely. Faulty heating systems, such as gas stoves, or blocked chimneys can cause dangerous buildups of the gas indoors. Although CO has important industrial applications—such as in steel manufacturing and chemical production—it is extremely dangerous in enclosed or residential spaces and should never be present indoors in high concentrations.

What Are the Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?

If you're exposed to CO, you may experience:

Headache
Dizziness
Weakness
Nausea or vomiting
Rapid heartbeat
Seizures
Chest pain
Disorientation
Shortness of breath
Loss of consciousness

NOTE: Because symptoms can resemble the flu, CO poisoning is often misdiagnosed until it’s too late.

How to Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones

✅ Install CO detectors on every floor of your home, especially near sleeping areas.

✅ Test alarms monthly and replace batteries at least twice a year.

✅ Never use gas ovens or generators indoors or in enclosed spaces like garages.

✅ Have all fuel-burning appliances inspected annually by qualified technicians.

✅ Know the signs of CO poisoning and act fast: if your CO alarm goes off, leave the building immediately and call 911.

The Yonkers incident could have had a far more tragic outcome. Let it serve as a warning—especially for families with elderly members or anyone living in older buildings.

Carbon monoxide is silent, but you don’t have to be. Speak up. Be prepared. Save lives.