Carbon monoxide poisoning is still a real risk.
The provincial government is reminding Nova Scotians to be aware of causes and take steps to make sure their home is safe.
Director of Technical safety for the province Jeff Dolan says it can be caused by a heating system that uses oil, propane, natural gas or wood.
“With the weather changes it’s becoming colder in Nova Scotia,” he says.
“We wanted to make sure that Nova Scotians, when they’re using their fuel-burning appliances and equipment and devices, that they’re doing so safely.”
Dolan says purchasing a home-detector kit is a great way to ensure the safety of the home.
He also suggests having it near where you sleep.
“Because carbon monoxide cannot be tasted, seen or smelled we want to make sure that people aren’t subjected to exposure while they’re sleeping.”
Dolan encourages residents to make sure their fuel-burning appliances, chimneys and vents are cleaned and inspected annually.
And make sure any vents for appliances aren’t blocked.
Below are safety tips from the provincial government to keep families and homes safe:
- — ensure fuel-burning appliances, chimneys and vents are cleaned and inspected annually
- — check that all venting for appliances is not blocked
- — gas and charcoal barbecues should only be used outside, away from all doors, windows, vents and other building openings
- — never use barbecues inside garages, even if the garage doors are open
- — portable fuel-burning generators should only be used outdoors in well-ventilated areas away from windows, doors, vents and other building openings
- — all portable fuel-burning heaters should be vented properly, according to manufacturer’s instructions
- — never use the stove or oven to heat your home
- — open the flue before using a fireplace
- — never run a vehicle or other fueled engine or motor inside a garage, even if the garage doors are open. Always remove a vehicle from the garage immediately after starting it
