Plymouth, NH (February 19, 2026) – Two people were hospitalized with life-threatening injuries early on Wednesday following a carbon monoxide emergency at a condominium complex on Tenney Brook Rd in Plymouth, according to fire officials.
Fire crews responded at approximately 4 a.m. on February 18 after reports of a possible gas-related incident. Upon arrival, responders detected dangerous levels of carbon monoxide inside the condominium.
Officials said the source of the carbon monoxide was traced to an on-demand water heater. Nearby townhomes were evacuated as a precaution while crews ventilated the area and secured the source.
Two residents were transported to a hospital with life-threatening injuries. The incident remains under investigation.
Key Details
- Reported: Wednesday, February 18, at 4 a.m.
- Location: Tenney Brook Rd condominium complex, Plymouth
- Incident Type: Carbon monoxide exposure
- Injuries: Two residents were hospitalized with life-threatening injuries
- Source: On-demand water heater
- Evacuations: Nearby townhomes evacuated as precaution
- Investigation: Ongoing
What We Know So Far
- Fire crews detected hazardous levels of carbon monoxide inside the condo.
- The gas was traced to an on-demand water heater.
- Two residents were transported to a hospital in critical condition.
- Surrounding townhomes were evacuated temporarily.
- Emergency responders ventilated the structure to reduce gas levels.
What’s Not Yet Confirmed
- The exact mechanical issue that led to the carbon monoxide buildup.
- Whether carbon monoxide detectors were present and functioning.
- The current medical status of the hospitalized residents.
Local Context
Residential complexes along Tenney Brook Rd in Plymouth often rely on gas-powered appliances, such as on-demand water heaters, which can produce carbon monoxide if malfunctioning or are improperly vented. Because carbon monoxide is colorless and odorless, dangerous levels can accumulate without warning. In suspected exposure incidents, fire crews typically evacuate affected units, measure gas concentrations, and ventilate the structure before allowing residents to return. Investigators may examine appliance installation, maintenance records, and ventilation systems to determine the cause.
What to Do Next
- If you suspect carbon monoxide exposure, leave the building immediately and call 911 from a safe location.
- Do not re-enter the property until emergency officials declare it safe.
- If safe, note any unusual appliance behavior or odors to assist investigators.
- Install and regularly test carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home, especially near sleeping areas.
FAQ
Q: Why can carbon monoxide be so dangerous?
A: Carbon monoxide is colorless and odorless, making it difficult to detect without an alarm while depriving the body of oxygen.
Q: How can water heaters cause carbon monoxide buildup?
A: If gas-powered water heaters are malfunctioning or improperly vented, they can release carbon monoxide into living spaces.
Q: What does it mean when an incident is under investigation?
A: It means officials are reviewing equipment and scene conditions to determine the cause and prevent similar events.
