While investigating a reported water leak early Friday morning, Police Officers Lenira Lima and Brett Osetkowski heard a faint alarm coming from the residence at 12 Water St. The officers determined that the sound was a carbon monoxide alarm and immediately requested the Fire Department to respond.

The officers banged on the doors and windows in an attempt to wake up the residents. After a short period of time the homeowner, John Sinnott, awoke. Upon entering the residence, it was discovered that it was the CO alarm registering a reading of 80 parts per million.

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, CO levels above 70 ppm can cause symptoms of headache, fatigue and nausea. If levels rise to 150 to 200 ppm, people may become disoriented, be unable to wake up and even die.

Fortunately, the five family members in the house were evacuated from the home without injury and did not require a visit to the hospital.

Firefighters arrived on scene and ventilated the house. It was determined that the carbon monoxide was coming from the newly installed gas fireplace.

Police Chief Mary Lyons credits the officers' fast action with preventing a tragedy.