BURLINGTON COUNTY, N.J. — Dense smoke from the Bethany Run wildfire drifted northward overnight, setting off carbon monoxide alarms in several neighborhoods as low temperatures kept the smoke close to the ground. Authorities said the shift in wind direction pushed the smoke toward residential areas including Kings Grant, Barton Run, and surrounding communities, causing an uptick in emergency calls.
More than 50 households reported carbon monoxide (CO) detector activations, which officials attribute to the sensitivity of these devices to smoke and particulates. CO detectors, designed to alert homeowners to dangerous gas levels, can also respond to smoke under certain conditions, especially when it contains high concentrations of particulate matter.
“We are aware of the issue,” emergency officials stated, advising residents to remain patient as atmospheric conditions are expected to improve with sunlight. “The morning sun will heat the air, causing the smoke to lift, and detectors should reset themselves.”
In a precautionary message, residents were advised to turn off heating systems and avoid calling emergency services unless experiencing symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, such as dizziness or difficulty breathing. If detectors continue to activate after heat systems are turned back on, residents were instructed to contact 911.
Communities in the Glassboro area are facing similar issues as smoke from a separate wildfire in their vicinity has led to comparable detector activations. Dense smoke has also affected areas such as Brush Hollow, Willow Ridge, South Elmwood, and Dominions, where residents may experience similar disruptions.
