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It’s colourless, odourless, tasteless, and potentially lethal—especially when we’re cooped up indoors over the winter.
Lieutenant Nathan Jahn with the Haley Station Firefighters Association says fire departments across Renfrew County regularly see an increase in calls for carbon monoxide exposure as we get further into the cold weather months, as well as an increase in the risks surrounding the gas.
Carbon monoxide can build up in a home due to burning fuel or using some appliances in poorly ventilated areas, and exposure can cause symptoms ranging from tiredness and headaches at low levels of exposure to dizziness, chest pain, poor vision, and difficulty breathing during prolonged exposure.
At very high levels, it can cause convulsions, loss of consciousness, coma, or even death.
Jahn says that your home is only as safe as you make it, regardless of its age.
He adds that making a few common-sense checks part of your winter routine can protect you and your family.
Early detection and response can save lives, and Jahn says carbon monoxide alarms are your first line of defence.
If a carbon monoxide alarm trips in your home or you begin to experience symptoms, leave immediately and move to fresh air. Once outside, call 9-1-1 or your local fire department and only return to your home when the problem has been fixed by a professional.
Jahn says local firefighters are focused on your safety and don’t mind responding to a potential carbon monoxide leak even if it’s a false alarm.
(written by Kasey Egan)