Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning include headache, dizziness, shortness of breath, nausea, and fatigue. Leerobin/Dreamstime.com

By Kelli Ireland

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Here’s what to know about Carbon Monoxide Awareness month

Nov 12, 2024 | 11:54 AM

Editor’s Note: This is the first part of a new monthly series from the Medicine Hat fire department.

As temperatures drop and colder days approach, the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning increases.

With many people turning on their heating systems, carbon monoxide — often called the “invisible killer” — becomes a serious concern.

CO is an odorless, colorless gas produced when fuels like gas, oil, wood, or coal burn incompletely.

When not properly ventilated or maintained, heating systems can release dangerous levels of this gas into the home.

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According to the Government of Canada, carbon monoxide poisoning is a significant public health issue. It is responsible for an estimated 300 deaths and 200 hospitalizations each year, as of Aug 24, 2023.

Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning include headache, dizziness, shortness of breath, nausea, and fatigue. These symptoms can be mistaken for the flu or other common illnesses.

Higher levels of poisoning can cause vomiting, confusion, loss of consciousness, brain damage, and even death.

In the home, sources of carbon monoxide include heating equipment like furnaces, fireplaces, and stoves, as well as appliances that burn fuel.

Vehicles running in an attached garage, portable generators operating indoors or near an open window, and the use of charcoal grills or barbeques indoors or in semi-enclosed spaces can also lead to the buildup of lethal CO levels.

Medicine Hat Fire and Emergency Services offers the following tips to protect your family:

– Install a carbon monoxide detector: Just like smoke alarms, CO detectors should be installed in key areas of your home, especially near sleeping areas. Test them monthly and change the batteries at least once a year. You can also purchase a smoke alarm and CO combo device.

– Maintain heating equipment: have your furnace, boiler, or any other fuel-burning appliances inspected and cleaned regularly by a professional to ensure they are functioning properly.

– Never run engines indoors: never run a car, truck, or any gasoline-powered engine in an attached garage—even with the door open. Portable generators should always be used outdoors, at least 6 meters (20 feet) from any door, window, or vent.

– Proper ventilation: ensure that chimneys, vents, and flues are clear of debris, and make sure that exhaust systems are properly ventilated to the outside.

If you suspect CO poisoning, leave the building or homeimmediately and get fresh air. Call 9–1–1 and emergency medical help right away.

For more information on fire safety equipment and how to protect your home from carbon monoxide risks, visit: medicinehat.ca/fire-safety-equipment