With cold weather setting in, the Stratford Fire Department is reminding residents to protect themselves and their families from a deadly, invisible threat.
Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week is officially underway, highlighting the necessary steps homeowners must take to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning in their homes.
Often referred to as the "silent killer," carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless, and tasteless gas. Because it cannot be seen or smelled, dangerous levels can build up entirely unnoticed. The gas is produced when fuels fail to burn completely in common household appliances, including gas furnaces, fireplaces, water heaters, generators, and fuel-burning stoves. Knowing the signs of exposure is critical, as symptoms often mirror flu-like illnesses and include headaches, dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, confusion, and loss of consciousness.
Fire officials emphasized that taking a few proactive safety measures can save lives. Residents should install carbon monoxide detectors adjacent to every sleeping area in the home, test them regularly, and replace units as recommended by the manufacturer, which is typically every seven to 10 years.
Homeowners should also schedule annual inspections for all fuel-burning appliances with a qualified technician and check that exterior furnace vents remain clear of snow, ice, or other blockages.
Finally, portable fuel-burning devices or generators must never be operated inside an enclosed space like a garage, shed, or home.
Carbon monoxide poisoning is entirely preventable, making this awareness week an ideal time to check appliances and test detectors to keep every household safe this season.
