A carbon monoxide alarm did what it was designed to do early this morning at a east side home. The family was alerted to the presence of carbon monoxide in their home by the carbon monoxide alarm sounding. The family contacted the Owen Sound Fire and Emergency Services Department and upon arrival, the firefighters noted readings between 50 and 100ppm in the home.

Owen Sound Fire and Emergency staff worked with Union Gas to determine the cause of the release of carbon monoxide into the home was from the furnace. The on duty staff ventilated the home.

Two of the residents were taken to hospital by Grey County EMS for precautionary reasons.

Carbon monoxide is a clear, odourless, tasteless gas that is produced by fuel fire appliances. Carbon monoxide alarms are required near the sleeping area in each home that have a fuel fired appliance or an attached garage. In apartment buildings, carbon monoxide alarms are required in the building service rooms and in the dwelling units adjacent to the service room.

When your carbon monoxide alarm activates call the fire department immediately from a safe location.

Prevent CO in your home:

Ensure fuel-burning appliances, chimneys and vents are cleaned and inspected annually. Visit COSafety.ca to find a registered contractor near you.

Check that all outside appliance vents are not blocked.

Gas and charcoal barbeques should only be used outside, away from all doors, windows, vents, and other building openings. Never use barbeques inside garages, even if the garage doors are open.

Portable fuel-burning generators should only be used outdoors in well-ventilated areas away from windows, doors, vents and other building openings.

Ensure all portable fuel-burning heaters are vented properly, according to manufacturer’s instructions.

Never use the stove or oven to heat your home.

Open the flue before using a fireplace for adequate ventilation.

Never run a vehicle or other fueled engine or motor inside a garage, even if the garage doors are open.

Always remove a vehicle from the garage immediately after starting it.

source: media release, City of Owen Sound