Winnipeg, MB – At 4:28 p.m. on Friday, February 11, 2022, the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) responded to reports of a carbon monoxide alarm activation in a five-storey condominium building in the 100 block of Tuxedo Avenue. Upon arrival on scene, crews used handheld carbon monoxide detectors to confirm the presence of the deadly gas in portions of the building.
Work began immediately to evacuate residents from impacted suites. In total, 35 individuals were evacuated, while 80 residents were able to shelter-in-place in their suites. Crews continually monitored carbon monoxide levels to ensure the safety of those who remained in their suites. Evacuated residents sheltered aboard Winnipeg Transit buses deployed to the scene. On-scene paramedics assessed one individual but they did not require transport to hospital.
WFPS crews, together with Manitoba Hydro crews, investigated the cause of the incident. The source of the carbon monoxide was determined to be a gas-powered pressure washer. The building’s HVAC system was not working as intended, allowing the gas to accumulate. Crews ventilated the building and all evacuated residents were able to return to their suites.
Every year, the WFPS responds to hundreds of emergency incidents involving carbon monoxide. In light of this incident, WFPS is once again reminding residents to be aware of the dangers of carbon monoxide and to purchase a carbon monoxide alarm for their home if they don’t already own one.
If you ever suspect carbon monoxide in your home, exit immediately and call 911.
Carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless, and tasteless gas that is a by-product of the combustion process. Dangerous accumulations of carbon monoxide can result from a faulty appliance, clogged chimney, inadequate venting or a buildup of engine exhaust.
Severe carbon monoxide poisoning is usually the result of prolonged exposure to highly elevated levels of carbon monoxide and can lead to unconsciousness and even death.
The symptoms of minor carbon monoxide poisoning can mimic those of the common flu such as headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, mental confusion, weakness, vision or hearing impairment and shortness of breath.
Tips for preventing carbon monoxide poisoning:
- Have fuel-burning appliances such as furnaces, wood-burning fireplaces and gas dryers cleaned and checked annually by a qualified service technician.
- Install a carbon monoxide alarm on all levels of your home and outside each sleeping area.
- Never idle vehicles in a garage even if the garage door is open.
- Ensure that all fresh air intake vents, exhaust vents and chimneys are clear of snow, insulation, leaves, bird nests, lint or debris.
- Make sure wood and coal-burning stoves are properly installed and vented.
- Don’t operate gasoline-powered engines, charcoal or propane barbecue/grills, or kerosene stoves in closed spaces or indoors.
- Check forced air fans for proper ventilation.
For more information on how to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, visit City of Winnipeg – Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service.
For more information on the safe use of natural gas or to report problems with your natural gas service, visit Manitoba Hydro or call 1-888-624-9376 (1-888-MBHYDRO)