Ontario’s Third Annual Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week

November 2nd marks the beginning of the third annual Carbon Monoxide Awareness week. This is the time of year when all carbon monoxide detectors should be checked since furnaces will be working overtime very shortly. This is important for those who have propane and use it to power any household appliances. If the carbon monoxide alarm goes off, you are instantly informed that something could be wrong with your propane line or connection.

 Carbon monoxide detectors should be installed adjacent to each sleeping area in every household that has fuel-burning appliances, fireplace(s) or an attached garage. Keeping your family safe from this silent killer is extremely important and should be a high safety priority with you and your family. Teaching your family members about carbon monoxide and what to do if the carbon monoxide alarm goes off should be an annual safety regime that is reviewed.

If your carbon monoxide alarm goes off or you suspect a propane leak, follow these DO’s and DON’Ts of what you should do next. 

DO’s

• Leave your home immediately, especially if you smell propane
• Call the fire department and your propane supplier
• Turn off the gas, BUT only if it is safe to do so

DON’Ts

• Turn on electronics, lights, appliances, or anything that could create a spark
• Therefore, obviously don’t light any matches, candles or cigarettes
• Attempt to repair any gas lines or appliances yourself. Call for assistance!
• Go back into the house or turn the gas back on

Carbon monoxide is an odourless and tasteless gas that is produced when fuels such as propane, natural gas or wood have access poor quality or insufficient air in order to fully complete its burning process. When exposed to carbon monoxide, one could experience symptoms such as headaches, nausea dizziness as well as loss of consciousness. 

It is recommended by the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs that all fuel-burning appliances be maintained and serviced annually by professionals in order to inspect and ensure that they are properly ventilating and are not producing hazardous levels of carbon monoxide.

 If you suspect something is wrong with your propane line or appliance connections, please call us at Budget Propane to schedule an appointment to assess the issue or answer any questions you may have.

Budget Propane supplies the world’s most eco-friendly gas to your home or office on demand.  Call 1 888 405.7777 to have Budget Propane install tanks and lines, place remote tank monitors, or provide technical support for your home, business, or contracting job. We deliver throughout central Ontario; Huntsville, Bracebridge, Haliburton, Muskoka, Bala, Midland, Orillia, Barrie, Alliston... and more! Visit us online at www.budgetpropaneontario.com