As we spring forward this weekend with daylight savings, Vernon Fire Rescue Services wants to remind residents to check the batteries in their smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.
“Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors that are properly installed and maintained play a vital role in reducing deaths and injuries,” said Deputy Chief Scott Hemstad.
Although the popularity of carbon monoxide (CO) alarms has been growing in recent years, it cannot be assumed that everyone is familiar with the hazards of carbon monoxide poisoning in the home.
Often called the “invisible killer,” carbon monoxide is an odourless, colourless gas created when fuels (such as gasoline, wood, coal, natural gas, propane, oil, and methane) burn incompletely. In the home, heating and cooking equipment that burn fuel are potential sources of carbon monoxide. Vehicles or generators running in an attached garage can also produce dangerous levels of carbon monoxide.
The dangers of CO exposure depend on a number of variables, including the victim's health and activity level. Infants, pregnant women, and people with physical conditions that limit their body's ability to use oxygen (i.e. emphysema, asthma, heart disease) can be more severely affected by lower concentrations of CO than healthy adults would be.
A person can be poisoned by a small amount of CO over a longer period of time or by a large amount of CO over a shorter amount of time.
“Carbon monoxide detectors and smoke alarms should be checked regularly, so using the Daylight Savings transition is a good reminder to replace the batteries and check the expiration date on your devices,” said Deputy Chief Hemstad.
For more information on smoke alarms and carbon monoxide safety, please visit www.nfpa.org
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