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Check your Carbon Monoxide alarms today, and test them monthly
(Fort McMurray, AB – February 12, 2024) – A weekend incident that saw the temporary displacement of residents from a Timberlea apartment complex, is a reminder of the importance of carbon monoxide (CO) alarms, says Regional Fire Chief Jody Butz.
On Saturday, February 10, at 12:16 p.m., firefighter-paramedics responding to a medical call were alerted to high CO levels by their portable detectors. The high CO levels were confirmed by attending firefighters.
Additional firefighters and rescue teams, paramedics, bylaw officers and other emergency response personnel were called in to assist with evacuations. Residents were assessed on the scene, with 10 people being transported to hospital for further evaluation and treatment.
Each floor of the building was systematically vented until CO levels returned to normal and residents were allowed to return home the following day. In this incident, the cause was determined to be a malfunctioning air exchanger.
“I want to thank all the first responders who through their awareness and professionalism helped in this incident,” said Chief Butz. “I can’t stress how important Carbon monoxide detectors are – they save lives. Have one on every level of your home and test them every month.”
The fire chief also asks people to learn the warning signs of carbon monoxide exposure, which include headaches, faintness, dizziness, confusion and irregular heartbeat.
Carbon monoxide facts
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a poisonous gas that is odourless, colourless, and tasteless.
Malfunctioning or improperly vented furnaces or other fuel-burning heating and cooking equipment, portable generators, water heaters, or cars left running in garages can cause dangerous CO concentrations to build up.
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