Three NE Calgary residents taken to hospital for carbon monoxide poisoning
Posted Jan 10, 2024 11:10 am.
Three people were taken to hospital Tuesday for carbon monoxide poisoning, Calgary fire says, stemming from an issue with the furnace in a northeast home.
Around 1:30 p.m. on Jan. 9, fire crews were called to a house in Taradale over for concerns related to carbon monoxide (CO).
When they arrived, firefighters and the Hazardous Materials teams found levels of CO between 60 and 70 parts per million, according to Calgary Fire.
The carbon monoxide alarms had went off and residents of the home reported feeling sick for some time.
However, they believed the alarms in the home were faulty, and went out to purchase new ones. When those also went into alarm following installation, they called 911.
ATCO was also called to the scene with fire crews and did a thorough investigation.
Calgary Fire says than an exhaust connection inside the wall had separated, allowing carbon monoxide to leak into the home every time the furnace turned on.
The home was ventilated to bring the CO readings to zero.
Levels in the house had reached dangerous levels, Calgary Fire adds.
Carbon monoxide is a poisonous gas that has no colour, smell, or taste.
Being exposed for long periods of time can lead to death.
Symptoms of CO exposure include headaches, nausea, dizziness, confusion, fatigue, and a loss of consciousness.
It’s recommended to check fuel-burning appliances annually to make sure they are working right.
Professionals also suggest all those appliances, including chimneys and vents, be cleaned and inspected every year by a professional.
To ensure you and your home are protected, visit the ATCO website for the CO checklist.
Resources can also be found at calgary.ca/fire
