It is that time of year when BC’s ambulance paramedics see an increase in emergencies related to carbon monoxide poisoning.
To mark Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week (Nov. 1 to 7), Ambulance Paramedics of BC are offering tips to the public to protect themselves from this “silent killer.”
As people start using indoor heating appliances for warmth, exposure to carbon monoxide can cause illness and injury, including death.
“What makes carbon monoxide so dangerous, and why we refer to it as the silent killer, is that the gas has no smell, taste or colour. Unless you have a carbon monoxide detector, you would never know it was present until you began to suffer from symptoms,” said Megan Lawrence, public education director and primary care paramedic with Ambulance Paramedics of BC (APBC).
Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning range in severity depending on the level of exposure and can include:
• Tiredness
• Headaches
• Shortness of breath
• Impaired motor function
• Dizziness
• Chest pain
• Confusion
• Convulsions/seizures
• Coma/unconsciousness
• Death
Although incidence of carbon monoxide exposure increase during cold weather, the gas can be present any time of the year. Appliances powered by fuels like propane, natural gas, and kerosene, plus inadequate ventilation, present the greatest risks. Help keep you and your home safe with the following tips:
• Never use gas-powered machines, barbeques, portable fuel-burning camping equipment or generators indoors or in enclosed spaces (ie. in a house, garage, camper/trailer etc.).
• Only use space heaters in enclosed spaces (such as home or trailer) that are designed for indoor use, and be sure to follow manufacturer instructions.
• Ensure regular maintenance and inspections of fuel-powered appliances such as furnaces, fireplaces, gas stoves and water heaters.
• Check fuel-powered appliances for leaks, cracks, blocked vents and corroded, damaged or disconnected pipes.
• Following a storm, ensure that exhaust vents are free and clear of debris and snow, including dryer vents, furnace exhaust vent, fireplace vents and chimney, heat recovery ventilator and vents for wood-burning or gas stoves.
