The Cumberland County Fire Department recently spoke about the importance of the Tennessee State Fire Marshal’s GetAlarmedTn.gov program by recounting a story about a critical carbon monoxide (CO) incident that took place on February 8, 2026.

Sandy Threet, who had requested and received a CO alarm installation on January 27, called the fire station after the new alarm activated and could not be reset. Firefighter Brandon Jenkins instructed Sandy and her daughter Kimberly to evacuate immediately.

Lieutenant Derek Carter arrived on scene and detected dangerous levels of CO (over 100 ppm) using an air gas monitor. After ventilating the residence to safe levels, Lt. Carter and Firefighter Kyle Coleman identified the source: the gas oven Sandy was using to cook lunch, which was producing up to 500 ppm of CO in baking mode. They advised the family to have an HVAC company service the appliance.

This event marked the first confirmed life-saving incident involving a CO alarm under the GetAlarmedTn.gov program, according to the State Fire Marshal’s Office. Carbon monoxide, often called the “Silent Killer” because it is undetectable by human senses, can cause flu-like symptoms and poses a serious risk if gas-fired appliances malfunction.

The Cumberland County Fire Department continues to respond to multiple smoke and CO alarm calls each year, highlighting the importance of properly installed and functioning CO detectors in homes.