Calgary, AB,
11
December
2013
|
13:27
America/Denver

The Calgary Fire Department reminds citizens about the risks of carbon monoxide

 

 

 

Carbon Monoxide (CO) is a silent and dangerous gas. Because it is colourless, odourless, tasteless and non-irritating, CO can be deadly.

In 2012, the Calgary Fire Department responded to 1,884 calls regarding CO. Out of those calls, 19 people required medical attention.

“Recently there has been an increase in carbon monoxide calls related to blocked fresh air intakes and exhaust vents causing  CO to build up in homes,” said Carol Henke, Calgary Fire Department Public Information Officer. “Fortunately, most people were alerted to the problem by their carbon monoxide alarm.”

CO is formed from the incomplete combustion of common fuels such as propane, gasoline, natural gas, heating oil, coal, wood, charcoal and kerosene as well as from the burning of almost any other combustible material. Common sources of CO in the home are:

  • Burning a wood fire without opening a window
  • Clogged or blocked fireplace or furnace chimney
  • Corroded or disconnected water heater vent connector pipe
  • Leaving a vehicle running in a garage, even with the garage door open
  • Blocked fresh air intakes by leaves, snow or ice, bird nests or other debris

When  inhaled, carbon monoxide prevents the body from absorbing oxygen and in high amounts, it can kill.  The symptoms of CO poisoning include:

  • Dizziness                            
  • Vomiting
  • Headache
  • Fatigue
  • Headache
  • Burning eyes
  • Loss of muscle control
  • Unconsciousness

To  prevent CO exposure in your home, ensure all fuel -burning appliances are properly installed and maintained  according to the manufacturer’s instructions. A  properly-installed and maintained carbon monoxide alarm will alert  you to CO build-up in your home.

Important safety tips to consider:

  • Have fuel-burning appliances inspected annually by a qualified technician.
  • Check furnace filter monthly and replace regularly.
  • Clear snow, ice and debris from vents and chimneys.
  • Ensure areas around your fuel-burning appliances are clutter-free.
  • Never use a charcoal barbecue or portable gas grill inside.
  • Check the flame of all natural gas appliances (it should be blue).
  • Never idle a vehicle inside a garage, even with the door open.
  • Open a window near a wood-burning fireplace.
  • Ensure that CO alarms are ULC (Underwriters Laboratories of Canada) or CSA (Canadian Standards Association) approved.                                                                 
  • Install CO alarms near your sleeping area.
  • Install and maintain CO alarms according to manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Visibly mark the expiry date on the CO alarm with a marker.
  • Replace CO alarm batteries annually and vacuum unit monthly.
  • Keep remote car starters out of reach of children

If someone in your home is experiencing symptoms of CO poisoning, get everyone out of the house immediately and call 9-1-1 from a phone outside your home (a neighbour’s house or a cell phone). 

For more information on carbon monoxide, please visit  or www.calgary.ca/fire or http://www.atcogas.com/Safety/Stay-Safe-Indoors/Carbon_Monoxide