Beware of carbon monoxide poisoning after a heavy snowfall
Carbon monoxide, also known as the “silent killer,” is a hidden danger of vehicles that isn’t talked about enough in the winter. So let’s talk about it
Cleaning your vehicle after a heavy snowfall is a standard practice for Canadians in the winter. Each year statements are issued by officials to remind people to clear the snow off of the roof of their vehicles, as well as to make sure your windshield and windows are clear of ice.
But what isn’t warned about enough is the importance of keeping your vehicle’s exhaust pipe clear of snow. More often than not, there isn’t enough snow to worry about such a thing—but it only takes one major winter storm to fully bury your vehicle in the snow.
If your vehicle’s exhaust pipe is clogged with snow, you are increasing your risk for carbon monoxide poisoning. In fact, vehicle emissions are the number one cause of carbon monoxide poisonings in Canada.
SEE ALSO: Cold-related emergencies: Staying warm and safe in Canadian winters
Carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless gas that can cause serious symptoms of illness and, when continuously exposed to it for long enough, death. It is a compound created as a byproduct of combustion—burning of carbon-based fuel into energy. The exhaust on a vehicle is meant to direct the resulting carbon monoxide out of the vehicle, where it can disperse in the atmosphere.
Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning can be very similar to flu symptoms, but mistaking it for the flu can be life-threatening. The main thing to remember is that carbon monoxide poisoning does not give you a fever. Read more about the differences between carbon monoxide poisoning and the flu here.
How to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning from your vehicle this winter
The first step to preventing carbon monoxide from entering your car after a heavy snowfall is to clear the exhaust pipe of any snow.
Many Canadians are used to starting their vehicles and letting them idle while they clean the snow off—letting the interior warm up and the windshield defrost. However, you should avoid doing this until the snow has been cleaned off of your vehicle, and especially not until you’ve ensured your exhaust pipe is cleared of snow.
Even if your vehicle is parked in a garage, Health Canada recommends that you do not leave it idling, regardless of whether or not the garage door is open. Carbon monoxide can still build up in your garage, entering your vehicle through the air system as it runs.
It is also best practice to make sure your vehicle, and exhaust, is regularly inspected and serviced to make sure everything is in working order.