Carbon monoxide alarm gets family out safely as furnace season starts, Grey Highlands Fire says

As furnaces switch on for the season, Grey Highlands Fire & Emergency Services is reminding residents to make sure their carbon monoxide alarms work, after an alarm alerted occupants of a home to dangerous levels of the gas.

Fire crews responded to a residence after occupants reported their carbon monoxide alarm had activated, the department said in a release dated Oct. 13, describing an incident "this past weekend." Firefighters used a four-gas detector, which immediately detected significant levels of carbon monoxide inside the home. The home's furnace was later identified as the source.

The alarm alerted the occupants, allowing them to exit the residence safely, Grey Highlands Fire says.

"This incident is a powerful reminder that carbon monoxide alarms save lives. Carbon monoxide is often called the silent killer because you cannot see it, smell it, or taste it. Fortunately, this family received the warning they needed and exited safely. Had there not been a working carbon monoxide alarm in the home, the outcome could have been very different. This incident also highlights the importance of having fuel-burning appliances inspected and maintained regularly to help prevent dangerous carbon monoxide conditions from developing," said Grey Highlands Fire Chief Marty Wellwood.

Grey Highlands Fire's carbon monoxide checklist

• Install alarms outside sleeping areas and on every level of your home.
• Test alarms monthly and replace them according to manufacturer recommendations.
• Have fuel-burning appliances inspected and maintained regularly by a qualified technician.
• Keep vents, chimneys and exhaust systems clear of obstructions.
• If an alarm sounds, move to fresh air immediately, call 9-1-1, and do not re-enter until it is safe to do so.

The full release is on the Municipality of Grey Highlands website.

Your turn

When did you last test your carbon monoxide alarm, or have your furnace inspected? Tell us at news@chatsworthbanner.ca.