Before you book, make sure to ask if the gasfitter has the right equipment and has completed this training, as poorly functioning or faulty gas appliances can be a source of carbon monoxide exposure, which is a risk to health and sometimes life. Only use a licensed gasfitter External Link who has completed training on detecting and correcting risks of carbon monoxide spillage. They must also provide the renter with the date of the most recent safety check, in writing, on the request of the renter. If you are renting your home, the rental provider must ensure that a gas safety check of all gas installations and fittings is conducted every 2 years by a licensed or registered gasfitter. This includes all central heating units, space heaters, wall units and gas log fires. Have your heater serviced regularlyĪll types of gas heaters should be serviced a minimum of every 2 years by a licenced gasfitter and tested for carbon monoxide spillage. If you know someone in this situation, consider checking on them and seeing what you might be able to do to help. If you are not using your gas heater, consider safe alternative ways of keeping warm, as cold temperatures may also cause health problems, particularly for young children, older people and those with chronic illnesses. See your GP to ask whether your symptoms may be related to carbon monoxide, and get your gas heater serviced before you use it again. If you suspect you may be affected by carbon monoxide, open windows and doors, turn off the appliance and go outside to breathe fresh air. Very high levels of carbon monoxide can cause loss of consciousness, seizures and death. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are non-specific and can be mistaken for a flu-like illness or even food poisoning. Long-term exposure to low levels of carbon monoxide can also lead to impaired thinking and concentration, emotional changeability, irritability and impulsiveness. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include: people with chronic illnesses such as heart and lung disease.The following people are at increased risk from air pollutants, including carbon monoxide: High levels of carbon monoxide in the air are very dangerous and may cause people to pass out or even die. Health problems that seem to be worse or only occur when the heating is on may be caused by carbon monoxide from a faulty gas heater.Ĭarbon monoxide is colourless and odourless. Health problems linked to faulty gas heatersĪ faulty gas heater can cause serious health problems. If your heater appears on Energy Safe Victoria's safety alerts list External Link, do not use it until it has been tested and serviced by a qualified gasfitter. Some gas heaters have been identified as posing a serious health risk. Have your gas heater serviced at least every 2 years by a qualified gasfitter, to help keep your family safe. An unsafe heater can cause a house fire or pollute your home with dangerous fumes including carbon monoxide. More information can be found on the Wilmington Fire Department website.Gas heaters need to be professionally installed and serviced by a trained and qualified gasfitter. The Fire Marshal's office encourages anyone in need of a carbon monoxide detector to call them at 30, as they have a small supply and want to help people stay safe. Pets should also be monitored if they are acting out of the ordinary.Ī thorough investigation is underway conducted by the Wilmington Fire Marshal, while Wilmington L&I is handling the scene. Signs of CO poisoning include dizziness, tiredness, shortness of breath and chest pains. Use extension chords for generators and longer hose attachments for pressure washers." Don’t think just because you have a window open that that’s enough to remove carbon monoxide. "He was conducting remediation or cleaning and had a gas-powered pressure washer inside the basement while he was doing the work," Captain Matthew Marsella, with the Safety and Training Unit of the Wilmington Fire Department, explained.Ĭaptain Marsella says gas-powered appliances, including power washers and generators should only be used outside, at least 20 feet away from any home. Officials believe the colorless, odorless gas surfaced while a contractor was working in the basement of the building. No details were provided regarding anyone’s condition.
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