Raising the alarm: Markham Fire launches contest to help residents stay safe from 'silent killer'

Yorkregion.com
Nov. 6, 2020
Heidi Riedner

You have a headache, you’re nauseous, your eyes are burning, you can’t think clearly and you just want to stay in bed.

Is it the flu? Or could it be carbon monoxide poisoning?

Markham Fire and Emergency Services wants residents to know the difference and stay safe from what is known as the "silent killer."

The department has launched a contest at yourvoicemarkham.ca/fireprevention running until Nov. 30 where you can win one of 20 prizes, but more importantly, learn about carbon monoxide poisoning and a few simple things you can do to keep you and your family safe.

Exposure to carbon monoxide can cause flu-like symptoms such as headache, nausea, dizziness, burning eyes, confusion, drowsiness and even loss of consciousness. In severe cases, carbon monoxide poisoning can cause brain damage and death.

Everyone is susceptible, but experts agree that unborn babies, pregnant women, senior citizens and people with heart or respiratory problems are especially vulnerable. Carbon monoxide can poison the body quickly in high concentrations or slowly over long periods of time.

"Carbon monoxide is known as the silent killer because it is an invisible, tasteless and odourless gas that can be deadly, and only carbon monoxide alarms can detect the presence of this lethal gas," said Ontario Fire Marshal Jon Pegg during Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week Nov. 1 to 7.

In Ontario, the law requires that carbon monoxide alarms be installed outside all sleeping areas of homes with a fuel-burning appliance like a gas furnace, a fireplace or an attached garage. Installing carbon monoxide alarms on every level of a home provides added protection.

Every home has approximately four to six fuel-burning appliances that produce carbon monoxide, including fireplaces, clothing dryers, furnaces, gas burning stoves and water heaters.

"Install alarms in your home and test them monthly," Pegg said, adding it's essential to have all fuel-burning appliances inspected by a registered contractor to check for leaks and ensure there is no buildup of carbon monoxide happening.
Outdoor fuel-powered patio heaters also pose a potential risk, according to the fire services, which says it is imperative that proper safety precautions are followed to prevent damage to property, injuries or a fatal incident.

Not only do portable heaters need to be installed, used, and maintained correctly, they must also be a safe distance from flammable objects, and be properly ventilated.

More than 50 people die each year from carbon monoxide poisoning in Canada, including 11 on average in Ontario, according to the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs. Hundreds are hospitalized every year from carbon monoxide poisoning, many of whom are permanently disabled.

You should seek medical attention immediately if symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are experienced.

And just like a smoke alarm, everyone in the home must know what to do when the CO alarm sounds: get everyone, including pets, to fresh air immediately and then call 911.