As winter quickly approaches and heating systems are fired up, we recommend residents test their carbon monoxide (CO) alarms and follow safety tips to prevent carbon monoxide-related emergencies.
Carbon monoxide is colourless and odorless, and the poisonous gas is nearly impossible to detect without the presence of an alarm.
Carbon monoxide is most commonly present in homes related to the incomplete combustion of fuels. When the gases released in the burning of these fuels are not properly ventilated out of the building, CO levels inside the building start rising.
According to the Government of Canada, CO poisoning is a significant public health concern across the country and is responsible for an estimated 300 deaths and 200 hospitalizations each year.
Signs and Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Mild Symptoms
Early signs of CO poisoning can include headaches, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. These symptoms are often mistaken for minor ailments, especially during colder months when illnesses like colds and the flu are common. If symptoms seem to worsen when you're indoors or improve when you step outside, it may be a sign of CO exposure.
Moderate to Severe Symptoms
As exposure levels increase, symptoms can become more serious. You might experience confusion, shortness of breath, blurred vision, and chest pain. Prolonged exposure or high levels of CO can lead to loss of consciousness, seizures, or even death. It’s vital to act quickly if you suspect CO poisoning to prevent lasting harm.
What to Watch For
Be alert to symptoms that occur across multiple family members or pets at the same time—this can be a key indicator of carbon monoxide exposure. Pay attention to your environment as well; if your CO detector alarms, leave the area immediately and call for help.
Be Prepared
Carbon monoxide alarms must be installed in any hallway immediately outside of a bedroom in detached homes and townhouses. Additionally, alarms should be installed in a hallway or other area immediately outside of the bedrooms in apartments if a unit has a fuel-fire appliance or shares a wall/floor/ceiling with a fuel-fired appliance or parking garage. Carbon monoxide alarms have a limited lifespan of five to seven years, and monthly testing and regular replacement are critical.
Homeowners can test their carbon monoxide alarms by following these steps:
Once a month, push the “Test” button to make sure the alarm is working
Once a year, replace the batteries to make sure your home has continuous protection
Once every seven to 10 years, or as instructed by the manufacturer, replace the carbon monoxide alarm. Replacements must be labelled as meeting “CSA-6.19” or “UL 2034” safety standards
Those renting should also ensure their carbon monoxide alarms are working by testing alarms in their unit once a month and immediately reporting any issues to their landlord.
In addition to testing carbon monoxide alarms, encouraging residents to follow their safety tips to prevent carbon monoxide-related emergencies, including:
Booking an annual inspection and cleaning for furnaces, chimneys and fireplaces, gas dryers, gas stoves, and any other fuel-burning appliances or equipment
Shovelling snow away from exhaust pipes, dryer vents, and intakes for fuel-burning appliances
Removing vehicles from the garage immediately after starting
Using generators or other gas equipment in a well-ventilated location outdoors away from windows, doors and vent openings
Avoid using gas appliances — such as ranges, ovens, or clothes dryers — to heat their homes.
Additionally, barbeque or portable fuel-burning camping equipment should not be used inside unless designed for use in an enclosed space. In efforts to reduce the number of deaths related to carbon monoxide poisoning.
Booking regular inspections for your furnace and other fuel-burning appliances ensures your home stays safe and reduces the risk of carbon monoxide leaks. Contact R&D Plumbing & Heating to book your next inspection.
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