With the season for heating your home just around the corner, it’s important to start thinking about how you can protect your family from the dangers of carbon monoxide.
Carbon monoxide (CO) is often called the silent killer. It’s an invisible, odourless and toxic gas that is produced when wood or fuels burn without proper ventilation.
To protect your family, install CO alarms on every level of your home, especially near bedrooms. They can be purchased at most big box stores for around $40 to $50. Take notes of expiry dates and test them regularly.
Common symptoms of CO poisoning include headaches, dizziness, nausea and vomiting and shortage of breath during moderate physical activity. If you are experiencing health problems from suspected CO poisoning, seek medical attention and let the physician know you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning.
Other warning signs of CO include stuffy or stale air, water condensation on windows, the smell of exhaust fumes, a back draft from the fireplace, or a pilot light that keeps going out.
If your alarm sounds or you suspect CO poisoning, leave the area immediately and call 911.
To prevent CO from forming; never use a barbecue, camp stove, fuel burning heater, generator, or any gas-powered engine inside your home, garage, or enclosed space. If a wood stove, fireplace or natural gas appliance is not properly ventilated, the fuel cannot get enough oxygen and will release CO.
Keep CO out of your home by having your heating system annually inspected and maintained by a licensed heating contractor. Ensure external vents are secure and free of snow, leaves and other debris. If you have a fireplace, make sure it has a fresh air intake duct.
Keep your family safe from carbon monoxide this fall and winter.
