Winter is the time of year when agencies like SaskPower get the majority of calls about possible carbon monoxide leaks. Gas fired appliances like furnaces are running more, and homes have less fresh air coming in.
“People tend to close their houses off a little more, close their windows, close their doors, not as much fresh air coming into the home,” said John Meller, gas inspections manager with SaskPower.
“Anytime there’s a failure with a (gas fired) appliance, carbon monoxide can leak into the house,” he said.
SaskPower and other agencies have stressed the importance of having carbon monoxide detectors for years. But Meller said many homes still don’t have them.
“We have lots of calls all the time that people don’t have them,” he said, adding the typical cost for one is $40.00.
Carbon monoxide is odorless and colorless, but exposure can result in sickness, and even death. It’s often caused by exhaust from gas fired appliances like furnaces or water heaters leaking into the home.
“At lower levels it’ll mimic a flu type symptom, dizziness, headaches, sore eyes, fatigue,” said Meller. “As the levels increase you can have loss of motor control, you can pass out, vomit” he said, and eventually die.
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He added there are simple steps people can take to help ensure their homes remain free
“Get your appliances checked yearly by a competent contractor, homeowners can walk around their house, make sure their vents are clear, clear of ice, dirt, debris,” he said.
He warned if the CO alarm does go off, never assume the alarm is faulty.
“Get outside, get to a safe place,” he said. And if you feel any symptoms, get medical attention. Even if you feel fine, he said, your home should be checked before you go back in.
He added there is a lot of useful information on SaskPower’s website.
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