Dear Editor,
I recently attended a workshop on the dangers of CO. It was meant for firefighters, who of course are faced with CO, among many other dangers, when they are actively fighting fire. But there . . .
are other situations rife with the danger of CO poisoning and even the firefighters need to be reminded occasionally. Civilians are in danger as well, so here is a gentle reminder for us all.
Carbon monoxide is produced by incomplete combustion, be it in a wood fire, car engine, furnace or any fuel-burning heat source. It is colourless, odourless, about the same density as air, and does not irritate the throat or lungs, so one may be inhaling it or absorbing it through the skin, and not be aware of it until it’s too late.
Remember the ice storm of a couple decades ago? People were becoming ill from trying to heat their apartments with charcoal-burning hibachis, even though it’s moulded right into the body of the device not to do this. When the systems go down, people can get stupid quickly.
People are also remarkably forgetful, about known dangers. One firefighter had a tale of off-duty work, repairing a truck in a cold garage with a fuel-burning heater. Even though two doors were open he was in a monoxide-rich atmosphere and upon completing the repair became violently ill. This is a person trained and experienced in fighting fires, and he forgot about CO danger.
We may be feeling slightly off and think it’s because of a cold or flu, when it is really low-level monoxide poisoning. Older or very young people, those suffering from other health issues or heavy smokers all will be more susceptible to monoxide poisoning. It is cumulative, and one never fully gets over the exposure. It is very important that we remember to check flues and exhaust systems and be aware if you’re feeling dizzy or nauseous when staying inside your house or office for long periods, as one does in mid-winter. Go for a walk in the fresh air, and see if it doesn’t make you feel better. This holds true, even if your home is safe from monoxide buildup. You should install a monoxide detector for your home, especially if you have a fuel-burning heat source.
Robert Wills, Shawville and Thorne, Que.
