The week of Oct. 4-10 has been designated Fire Prevention Week by the National Fire Prevention Association and Columbia Gas of Virginia is encouraging the public to stay safe with eight simple tips.
- Schedule an annual furnace check up with a qualified contractor to ensure it is operating at maximum efficiency before the peak winter months arrive.
- Check for and keep all flammable materials away from hot water tanks, heating equipment and cooking surfaces. This includes clothing, paints or other flammable items. Remove lint from clothes dryer vent tubing.
- Install carbon monoxide detectors and learn the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning. (See below)
- Clean chimneys and check for blockages.
- Never use a kitchen range or oven to heat a room. In addition to producing dangerous carbon monoxide gas, it also can damage the range.
- Install and maintain smoke detectors.
- Always call 811 at least three days before you plan to dig. It is a free service and can prevent damages to underground utilities and personal injury.
- If you smell natural gas “rotten eggs” don’t hesitate and immediately leave the area and from a safe location call 911 and Columbia Gas at 800.544.5606.
“Fire prevention week is a good reminder to take an inventory of your home by reviewing these eight simple safety tips so you can remain safe and warm this winter,” said Columbia Gas of Virginia Vice President and General Manager Phil Wilson. “It is also a great time to thank all emergency responders for the difficult work they do in keeping our communities safe and being there when we need them. Thank you.”
Carbon monoxide may cause any or all of the following symptoms:
- Human symptoms include headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, irregular breathing, ringing in the ears, seeing spots, feeling ill or tired at home, but feeling fine away from home, as well as loss of consciousness and respiratory failure.
- Household symptoms include foul-smelling or stale air, the smell of exhaust fumes, a yellow or orange flame on natural gas ranges and stoves, as well as soot around the outside of a chimney, furnace or water heater flue vent, or large areas of condensation of water vapor on walls or windows.
What to Do
- If you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning or a natural gas leak, leave the home immediately, and from a safe location call 911.
To learn more about natural gas safety log on to www.ColumbiaGasVa.com.
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