Carbon Monoxide Safety Tips

Unlike fire and burglary, carbon monoxide can be an invisible, almost undetectable threat to your family and home. If you live in a home with gas and gas appliances or have an attached garage, you need to be aware of this threat.

Be aware of carbon monoxide and the symptoms! Carbon monoxide is invisible odourless gas that causes symptoms such fatigue, nausea, headache, dizziness — that may be confused with flu or other symptoms.

The very young and old, pregnant women, unborn babies, and people with heart and respiratory problems are especially vulnerable.

Any fuel-burning appliance can emit carbon monoxide gas, so be sure such appliances are vented directly to the outside and keep fresh air circulating in your home.

Have your heating system checked for carbon monoxide emissions before the heating season begins.

Check your kitchen range, fireplaces and water heater for carbon monoxide emissions periodically. If you have a wood-burning fireplace, have the chimney cleaned and inspected every year, open a window or door slightly to allow proper airflow until the fire is completely out.

Never run your car engine for more than a few moments in a garage or other enclosed area, even if the door is open.

The early detection of carbon monoxide has proved crucial to life safety particularly when applied in sleeping risk accommodation. If a CO fire detector is installed, typically an extra 30 minutes evacuation time can be achieved with an alarm being given long before the occupant is asphyxiated.