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General CO Information
Carbon Monoxide (CO) is a colourless, odourless, and
tasteless poison gas that can be fatal when inhaled. CO
inhibits the blood’s capacity to carry oxygen.
Possible Sources
CO can be produced when burning any fossil fuel: gasoline,
propane, natural gas, oil and wood. It can be produced by any
fuel-burning appliance that is malfunctioning, improperly
installed, or not ventilated correctly. Possible sources include
furnaces, gas ranges/stoves, gas clothes dryers, water heaters,
portable fuel burning space heaters, fireplaces, wood-burning
stoves and certain swimming pool heaters. Blocked chimneys
or flues, back drafting and changes in air pressure, corroded or
disconnected vent pipes, can also cause CO. Vehicles and other
combustion engines running in an attached garage and using
a charcoal/gas grill or barbecue in an enclosed area are all
possible sources of CO. Do not BBQ in enclosed spaces.
The following conditions can result in transient CO situations:
Excessive spillage or reverse venting of fuel-burning appliances
caused by outdoor ambient conditions such as: Wind direction
and/or velocity, including high gusts of wind, heavy air in the
vent pipes (cold/humid air with extended periods between
cycles), negative pressure differential resulting from the use of
exhaust fans, simultaneous operation of several fuel-burning
appliances competing for limited internal air, vent pipe connec-
tions vibrating loose from clothes dryers, furnaces, or water
heaters, obstructions in, or unconventional, vent pipe designs
which can amplify the above situations, extended operation of
unvented fuel-burning devices (range, oven, fireplace, etc.),
temperature inversions which can trap exhaust gasses near the
ground, car idling in an open or closed attached garage, or
near a home.
CO Safety Tips
Every year have the heating system, vents, chimney and flue
inspected and cleaned by a qualified technician. Always
install appliances according to manufacturer’s instructions
and adhere to local building regulations. Most appliances
should be installed by professionals and inspected after
installation. Regularly examine vents and chimneys for
improper connections, visible rust, or stains, and check for
Carbon Monoxide Safety Information
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