The South Carolina Department of Environmental Service has reported an increase in incidents caused by carbon monoxide happening in the winter, especially when heat sources are not working properly or are used incorrectly.
Carbon monoxide or the “silent killer” is caused by fuels burning in the appliances incompletely or appliances that do not have the proper ventilation. The nickname is coined from the gas’ odorless and colorless nature.
Fuel-based household appliances and heaters such as stoves, water heaters or furnaces that use gas or propane are risks for gas leaks.
Central Berkeley Fire and EMS spokesman Colt Roy says carbon monoxide detectors in households that have risky appliances can be lifesaving.
Roy says the first step is to get everyone outside the home when the alarm goes off then call 911.
Roy said: “The first thing we’re going to do when we get in is we’re going to confirm that that’s what’s going on.
“We’re going to try to find the source, we’re going to open up the doors and windows, we’re going to put fans in.
“We’re going to get the house aired out and try to find the source of the leak and either correct that or shut the gas off altogether.”
Roy added that a detector in home is especially crucial at night: “Overnight, that’s definitely when they’re going to really save you.
“Because with carbon monoxide, as it builds up… you go to sleep and it keeps you asleep forever. So that alarm going off as those numbers start to rise? That’s going to give you the indication that something is not right.”
Central Berkeley Fire and EMS shared why having a carbon monoxide detector in your household is so important.
Fuel-based household appliances and heaters such as stoves, water heaters or furnaces that use gas or propane are risks for gas leaks.
