REGINA — To help bring the dangers of the invisible, odourless, tasteless gas sharply into focus, the Government of Saskatchewan has proclaimed the first week of November as Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week.
During the week, SaskEnergy, the Technical Safety Authority of Saskatchewan (TSASK) and the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA) are sharing important carbon monoxide (CO) safety reminders with the public.
Any appliance or equipment that burns fuel, including fireplaces, gas stoves, water heaters, furnaces, grills, generators or car engines, can cause carbon monoxide (CO) build-up and threaten the safety of you and your family.
Last year, SaskEnergy received more than 1,500 CO calls.
“Safety is fundamental to SaskEnergy’s mission, which is why we work closely with provincial safety agencies such as TSASK and the SPSA, along with fire departments and community partners, to help educate Saskatchewan residents on how to detect and prevent CO incidents,” said Mark Guillet, president and chief executive officer of SaskEnergy.
“Carbon monoxide can’t be seen or smelled, but awareness and a working CO alarm can make all the difference.”
CO alarms are most effective when placed near sleeping areas and on every level of the house, according to SaskEnergy.
“When a concentration of carbon monoxide is detected in the home, a CO alarm will sound, giving you time to get out of the house, call for help and safely avoid the physical harm that exposure to CO can cause,” said Stephen Friedt, Chief Gas Inspector, TSASK.
Symptoms of CO poisoning can include headaches, dizziness, confusion and nausea. CO poisoning can happen to anyone, but some people are more susceptible than others. Elderly, infants and those with heart or respiratory problems are more likely to experience effects of CO poisoning.
“CO alarms are mandatory in all residential properties in the province,” said Wayne Rodger, fire marshal for the SPSA.
“Whether you live in an apartment, condominium, a house or if it’s a new or old home, installing a CO alarm is a simple and safe way to protect you and your family from the dangers of CO.”
Below are some additional CO awareness tips to keep in mind:
- Replace Units: The expiry date on CO alarms is typically five to seven years.
- Regular Maintenance: Residents should test their alarm once a month and remove any dust or pet hair, as well as replace batteries as recommended by the manufacturer.
- Ensure Proper Ventilation: It is recommended to have all fuel-burning appliances inspected by a licensed contractor every year and conduct regular inspections of your chimneys and vents to ensure they are clear of debris or ice/snow buildup.
- Contact Emergency Personnel: If your CO alarm goes off, or you are experiencing symptoms of CO poisoning, evacuate your home and call 911.
- Educate: Make sure everyone in your home knows what CO is, the dangers of it, and have a clear response plan.
For more information on CO safety and prevention tips, visit the SaskEnergy and the TSASK websites.
To learn more about CO alarm regulations and where they should be installed, visit Government of Saskatchewan – Building and Technical Standards Branch.
