'Spectacularly dangerous:' Beware of this silent killer following a snowstorm
Here are some tips to stay healthy, warm, and safe.
Southern Ontario is no stranger to snow or cold, but Sunday’s historic storm is putting citizens and municipal snow ploughs to the test. More than 40 cm of fresh accumulation was recorded at Toronto Pearson Airport, and 56 cm in the downtown area. These totals set new snowfall records.
That accumulation added to the significant snow already on the ground, courtesy of a January 15th storm.
Bitter cold and double-digit windchills have accompanied the snow. As a result, several communities along Canada’s most populated corridor are experiencing an unusually extreme and prolonged weather event.
Preventing post-storm carbon monoxide poisoning
Weather Network storm hunter Mark Robinson was surveying the scene in Guelph, Ontario Monday, and noticed something that’s relatively unusual in southern Ontario.
“This isn’t something we usually have to deal with, but we’ve had a lot of snow,” he says.
“On the exterior of your home, the outputs for the hot water heater in the furnace can get covered by drifting snow. If they do, you can get carbon monoxide into the house, and if you haven't got a carbon monoxide detector, you may not in any way detect that until it's too late.”
Robinson recommends getting outside today to survey your home and make sure the outlets are free of snow.
If they remained covered for a prolonged period, it could create a situation that Robinson calls “spectacularly dangerous.”
“So get out there and make sure, if nothing else, that these outputs are all uncovered,” he says.
What is carbon monoxide poisoning?
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless, odourless, and tasteless gas that is a byproduct of burning gas, wood, propane, charcoal, or other fuels, the Government of Canada says.
When too much builds up in the bloodstream, it can cause serious tissue damage or death.
Here are some prevention tips from The Canadian Red Cross:
Keep your heating system, water heater, and any other gas, oil, or coal-burning appliances regularly serviced by a licensed technician.
Install a CO detector in your home and check the batteries twice a year.
Seek prompt medical attention if you suspect CO poisoning. Symptoms include: dizziness, lightheadedness, and nausea.
Do not run a vehicle inside an attached garage. In a detached garage, only do so when the door is open.
Never heat your home with a gas oven.
Never use generators, charcoal grills, camp stoves, or other gasoline or charcoal-burning devices indoors unless they are directly beside an open window, door, or vent.
Other post-snowstorm safety considerations
Avoid downed power lines.
Experts recommend staying at least 10 metres away from any downed or hanging power lines, as they may still be live. Downed power lines can be reported by calling emergency services.
Dress for the weather conditions.
Even thin layers of ice can be slippery. If heading outdoors, wear boots or shoes with good traction, and dress in warm layers to protect against the bitter cold.
Be aware of your surroundings.
Already-weakened tree branches can snap under the pressure of snow and ice buildup. This risk can be elevated when high winds are present.
Don't over-exert yourself.
Use salt or sand to improve traction on your property. If shoveling or removing ice, take your time and avoid over-exerting yourself to prevent back and heart strain.
Inspect your home.
Cautiously check your home for any damages caused by ice or falling tree branches.
Avoid unnecessary travel.
Roads can be slippery, and blowing snow and snow piles can obstruct your view of oncoming people or traffic. If you have to head out, try to stick to roads that have been cleared and treated, and keep an emergency kit in your vehicle.