Carbone monoxide

What is it exactly?  

Carbon monoxide, also referred to as CO, is an invisible, odourless and toxic gas. CO is generated when various equipment/devices or vehicles burn flammable (combustible) materials such as propane, wood, diesel, fuel oil, etc. Generators, snowblowers, heating equipment/devices, some cooking appliances, wood stoves, fireplaces and gas-powered vehicle exhaust pipes (automobiles, snowmobiles, ATVs) are all examples of combustion systems or devices that generate carbon monoxide. The use of these devices indoors or in other poorly or non-ventilated spaces can expose the persons present to dangerous concentrations of carbon monoxide. This gas can, moreover, only be detected by a carbon monoxide detector.

Health impacts

Carbon monoxide can cause headaches, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, dizziness and difficulty breathing. At higher concentrations, it can be harmful to health and even result in death.

What to do

  • Make sure there is at least one operational carbon monoxide detector in your home. It is also recommended to apply these measures at your fishing or hunting camp.
  • Never use a BBQ, camping stove or oil, propane or kerosene lamp or heater in closed indoors spaces, even in the event of a power outage, unless the product label expressly permits such use.
  • Never start and leave an engine (vehicle, snowmobile or fuel or gas equipment, e.g., a snowblower) running near a door, an open window or in closed spaces such as a garage or shed, even when the door is open.
  • If you think that a heating device or appliance (such as a furnace, fireplace or water heater) could be defective, contact your housing manager so they can have a professional check it out.

If your detector comes on but you have no symptoms of intoxication:

  • Open your home’s doors and windows to air out the premises;
  • Leave the home (this applies to all inhabitants as well as pets);
  • If applicable, shut off the power for combustion devices such as propane or gas tanks or gas devices;
  • Do not go back indoors until your combustion devices have been checked out by a qualified professional;
  • Notify your housing manager if applicable.

If you have symptoms of intoxication, whether or not your carbon monoxide detector comes on:

  • Leave the home (this applies to all inhabitants as well as pets);
  • Make your way to the CLSC or health centre.
     
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