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As temperatures drop and heating systems kick into high gear, the Government of Saskatchewan has designated the first week of November as Carbon Monoxide (CO) Awareness Week to help protect residents from the dangers of this invisible, odourless gas.
The awareness campaign is a collaborative effort involving SaskEnergy, the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA), and the Technical Safety Authority of Saskatchewan (TSASK), all of whom are urging Saskatchewan residents to be vigilant about CO safety as winter approaches. They recommend installing or testing CO alarms in homes to ensure they’re working properly and to prevent the dangers associated with CO exposure.
"Carbon monoxide is often called the 'silent killer' because it's both colourless and odourless, making it impossible to detect without an alarm," said a spokesperson from SaskEnergy. "With heating systems in full use, it’s critical for everyone to have working alarms."
Statistics from SaskEnergy indicate that CO-related incidents are more common than many realize. Every year, the organization responds to approximately 1,500 calls related to CO leaks or alarms, underlining the importance of having CO detectors in place.
To protect residents, regulations now require CO alarms to be installed in all homes across Saskatchewan. Experts recommend placing alarms near sleeping areas and fuel-burning appliances to ensure early detection, especially during the colder months.
The government is also encouraging people to educate themselves on the symptoms of CO poisoning, which can include headaches, dizziness, nausea, and confusion. Anyone who suspects a CO leak or experiences symptoms should evacuate immediately and call emergency services.
For more tips on CO safety, Saskatchewan residents are advised to visit the SaskEnergy and TSASK websites, which provide information on identifying CO sources, maintaining heating appliances, and preventing CO buildup.
Through Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week, the province aims to remind everyone that with the proper precautions, CO poisoning is largely preventable, allowing Saskatchewan residents to stay safe and warm through the winter months.