By Lyle Karasiuk - Parkland Ambulance

Safety First

It’s Fall

Oct 1, 2019 | 9:48 AM

As we’ve settled into the fall season the calendar on the fridge fills with activities and the changing leaves signal cooler weather.

Many of have started to heat our homes by turning on the natural gas furnace.

Yuk, I hate to think of snow but it is going to happen whether we want it or not.

When was the last time you checked your furnace? Do you have a carbon monoxide detector in your home?

As we heat our homes regardless of the fuel such as wood or natural gas a by-product of the burning is carbon monoxide. This odorless, colorless gas can be dangerous to our health if not vented properly. Now is the time to do a home heating inspection or contact a local dealer to that for you.

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First from the outside look at the chimney. Is there a rain cap to prevent dirt, debris or critters from getting in? Is the chimney straight and not bent? If you see something missing or damaged you need to get it repaired. From inside the house, with no heating appliances running, if possible remove the bottom cap of chimney and have a look up.

You should see a perfectly round cylinder and of course light at the top. Again if you are not able to do that or unsure call in the professionals from a local heating company to do this for you. Using a mirror you should do the same to inspect your fireplace too.

If you burn wood as a primary heat source, when is the last time you cleaned your chimney? This requires a professional!

Next, following the manufactures instructions check your furnace. Depending on the type, make and model it may require removing a plate with a few screws. Be sure the power is off and little things like oil the motor are easy things a homeowner can do.

Check the belt to make sure it is not cracked or worn. You will need to get a heating professional into check the heat exchanger for cracks. Now is the time to get these things done. A poorly functioning furnace spells disaster!

Everyone needs a carbon monoxide detector in their home. Now that we don’t open our windows as much for fresh air, exhaust gases from a malfunctioning furnace can build up.

These small relatively inexpensive devices can warn you of the need to get everyone out of the house. Signs of carbon monoxide poisoning can be but not limited to: headache, dizziness, upset stomach, everyone in the house complaining of flu like symptoms.

If you suspect you have a carbon monoxide problem please get everyone, including pets, out of the house as quick as possible. Contact the 24 hours emergency number for Sask Energy 1-888-700-0427 or local emergency services and stay out till they arrive.

They will check the air quality and advise you accordingly of the next steps.

Fall time includes lots of opportunity to get those windows washed and yard tied. If using a ladder do so safely to avoid falling and a visit from paramedics.

Fall means that hunting season is starting. Hunters need to ensure they use their firearms safely, obey all regulations, store ammunition apart from the gun itself and always take a second look before firing the gun.

Ensure your own safety and always hunt with a buddy. Have a safe hunting season!