A report from Technical Safety BC has identified a home furnace as the origin of the carbon monoxide (CO) that claimed a Castlegar man’s life earlier this year.
The Castlegar Fire Department was called to a residence in the 3400 block of 4 Ave. at 10:02 a.m. on Feb. 24. When they arrived, high levels of carbon monoxide were detected in the house.
One man was found in the basement level of the house and taken to hospital for treatment for severe CO poisoning, but a second man was found deceased on the ground floor level.
According to the report, the CO leak originated from an improperly repaired and separated vent pipe on a high-efficiency natural gas furnace, which allowed flue gases to enter and accumulate in the living space of the house.
The investigation found that the furnace was likely improperly installed in 2007, and following installation, was not maintained regularly. Despite recommendations to repair or replace the furnace starting in 2021, no action was taken by the homeowner, according to the report.
There were no CO alarms installed in the home.
The tragedy is a painful reminder as to why Nov. 1-7 has been set aside as Carbon Monoxide Awareness week in B.C.
CO is known as the “silent killer” because it is an invisible, tasteless and odourless gas that can cause health problems before you even know it is there.
CO is produced when fuels such as propane, gasoline, natural gas, heating oil or wood do not burn completely in fuel-burning appliances and devices.
At low levels CO can cause tiredness, headaches, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting and impaired motor functions.
At high levels, or if you are exposed to low levels for long periods of time, symptoms include dizziness, chest pain, poor vision and difficulty thinking.
At very high levels, it can cause convulsions, coma, and death.
The Province of B.C. suggests the following to prevent CO exposure:
• Ensure fuel-burning appliances, chimneys, and vents are properly maintained, as well as cleaned and inspected annually.
• Check that all outside appliance vents are not blocked.
• 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 a chimney 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.
• Install a working CO alarm on every storey of your home and next to each sleeping area.
More information on CO safety can be found online here.