Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: A Silent Winter Danger

As winter sets in and the temperatures drop, many of us turn to our natural gas furnaces, fireplaces, and other heating devices to keep our homes warm. However, while these appliances provide comfort, they can also pose a dangerous, often invisible, threat: carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. In this post, we’ll explore the risks, signs, and steps you can take to protect yourself and loved ones.

What Is Carbon Monoxide (CO)?

Carbon monoxide is a colourless, odorless, and tasteless gas that can be deadly when inhaled in high concentrations. It is produced when hydrocarbons like natural gas, propane, charcoal, wood, and gasoline are burned incompletely. This means that appliances like gas stoves, fireplaces, space heaters, and even cars can create dangerous levels of carbon monoxide if they aren’t properly maintained or ventilated.

What Causes Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?

In homes, CO is typically generated by fuel-burning appliances such as:- Natural gas furnaces-Fireplaces and wood stoves-Barbeques and grills (especially when used indoors or in enclosed spaces)-Gas-powered generators-Cars left running in garagesWhen these appliances aren’t installed correctly, are poorly maintained, or are used improperly (like running a generator indoors or leaving a car idling in a closed garage), carbon monoxide can build up in the indoor air, putting everyone in the home at risk.

The Dangers of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

One of the scariest aspects of carbon monoxide is that it’s a silent killer. Because CO has no smell, colour, or taste, people can be exposed to it without realizing it. Breathing in carbon monoxide reduces the body’s ability to carry oxygen in the blood, depriving vital organs (especially the brain and heart) of the oxygen they need to function properly. Low levels of CO can cause severe health issues over time, but at higher concentrations the effects can be deadly.

Did You Know?

-          Over 20,000 people visit hospital emergency rooms every year due to carbon monoxide poisoning, according to Canadian Home Inspection Services.

-          As many as 36% of carbon monoxide-related deaths occur during the winter months from December to February, a peak season due to the increased use of fuel-burning appliances in cold weather.

-          In Alberta, 64 people have died from accidental carbon monoxide poisoning between 2020 and 2023 according to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.

Why Are So Many People Unaware of the Risks?

A 2023 study by Canadian Home Inspection Services revealed that 34% homeowners are either unaware of the presence of a carbon monoxide detector in their homes or don’t have one at all. This is a troubling statistic, especially considering how deadly CO poisoning can be. If you haven’t already, check that your carbon monoxide detectors are working and up to date. If you don’t have one, it is an inexpensive and life-saving investment. Prices range from $27.00-$100.00 and can be bought on Amazon, Walmart, or many home hardware stores.

Preventing Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Carbon monoxide poisoning is preventable, and there are several key steps you can take to keep your home and family safe this winter:

1)      Install a Carbon Monoxide Detector. Since 2007, in Alberta CO detectors are mandatory in all new homes, additions and renovations. However, older homes were not required to meet this code and would need a separate device installed to detect CO.

2)      Regular Maintenance. Have your furnace, fireplace and other fuel-burning appliances checked annually to ensure they are functioning properly.

3)      Keep chimneys clean. A clogged or dirty chimney can prevent exhaust gases from escaping, causing CO to build up inside.

4)      Never use grills, generators, or barbeques indoors. These appliances should only be used outdoors in well-ventilated areas.

5)      Don’t idle your vehicle in the garage. Even if the garage door is open, car engines produce CO which can quickly fill an enclosed space.

What To Do if Your Carbon Monoxide Alarm Goes Off

If your CO detector goes off, you must act quickly.

1)      Leave your home immediately. Take everyone with you, including pets.

2)      Call 911 and tell them you suspect Carbon Monoxide poisoning.

3)      Stay Out! Do not re-enter until professionals say it is safe.

Final Thoughts

As we head into the colder months, it is important to be aware of the hidden dangers in our homes, like carbon monoxide. By taking simple precautions-installing detectors, performing regular maintenance, and knowing what to do if something goes wrong- you can help ensure that your home remains a safe, warm haven this winter.