To reduce your risk of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, ensure the following appliances are regularly cleaned and maintained by a professional, licensed gas contractor:
- stoves,
- dryers,
- furnaces,
- hot water tanks, and
- fireplaces.
“Homeowners should hire a licensed gas contractor who will service major appliances to ensure safe operation. For extra peace of mind, install a carbon monoxide detector in your home as a secondary precaution,” says Wayne Lock, BC Safety Authority Gas Safety Manager. “It is also critical that people never try to use outdoor propane equipment inside as this can cause serious health hazards.” |
Carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless, toxic gas. The symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include:
- dizziness,
- fatigue,
- headache,
- vomiting or nausea,
- loss of manual dexterity,
- confusion,
- unconsciousness, and
- death.
Unlike carbon monoxide, natural gas and propane smell like rotten eggs or sulfur. If you smell or hear gas escaping, or if you suspect the presence of CO:
- Leave the house or building immediately.
- On your way out, do not smoke, operate electrical switches or devices, use any phone, or create any other source of ignition.
- Call your gas supplier’s emergency response number or 911 as soon as you are in a safe area.
For more information about gas safety and to download tips to reduce your risks of carbon monoxide poisoning go to http://www.safetyauthority.ca/safety-information/homeowners/gas.
