Saskatchewan snowstorm sparks surge in carbon monoxide calls

In the wake of a major weekend snowstorm, the Saskatoon Fire Department has received a handful of calls about blocked furnace vents and carbon monoxide risks.

Fire marshal Brian Conway said the department has received five calls related to carbon monoxide since Friday. In one of those incidents, someone had to be treated on the scene.

Conway said he expects the fire department will receive a few more calls in the coming days because of the snow event.

The venting for a house’s furnace requires air to flow through the intake exhaust pipes, and when heavy snow events hit, it’s important to make sure those vents are clear of snow and ice, Conway explained.

“If they’re blocked, then we have that occurrence that carbon monoxide could be building up within the home,” Conway said, adding the blockages can also cause a furnace to shut down.

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If people can’t reach their vent themselves to clear it, Conway suggests calling a friend, family member or “snow angel” for help.

Carbon monoxide is a poisonous, odorless, flammable gas that can cause flu-like symptoms such as nausea, headaches, dizziness, loss of consciousness, burning eyes or confusion.

“It can be a very dangerous thing,” Conway said.

Having a functioning carbon monoxide alarm on every level of the home is an important safety step as it signals the accumulation of dangerous carbon monoxide levels, he explained.

If the alarm is sounding or if someone believes they’re experiencing the poisoning effects of the gas, they should evacuate all occupants and pets from the home and call 911, Conway said.

He added it’s important for people to get their furnaces serviced regularly and to monitor the vents year round.