Subsidized homes to be inspected after CO leak sends family of 6 to hospital
Nearly 130 properties managed by Capital Region Housing are under scrutiny after a broken furnace leaked and sent a family of six to hospital with symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning.
"This occurring is quite rare," said Greg Dewling, executive director of Capital Region Housing.
The family was allowed to return to their south Edmonton townhouse after treatment Friday.
"It was an older furnace," Dewling said. "There was a malfunction in the furnace that caused the creation of some carbon monoxide."
There was also no carbon monoxide detector in the home. Dewling said his staff will install one quickly. The family's furnace has also been replaced, he said
"Obviously family safety is of the utmost importance for us," he said. "We never want anyone to experience any type of hospitalization, so the fact that they're home safe ... we're very pleased with that."
Most of the homes are in the same neighbourhood, around 105th Street and 38th Avenue. They were built in the early 70s and are in the process of being upgraded with carbon monoxide and smoke detectors, Dewling said.
A quarter of the homes have yet to be upgraded.
Furnace replacements have also been scheduled for next summer, though Dewling said Capital Region Housing will now inspect the 128 homes to prevent another gas leak.
"If there are any that are not functioning properly, we'll replace them right away."
Carbon monoxide leaks become more common as temperatures drop and people switch on gas-burning appliances, according to an ATCO Gas spokesperson.
The gas is colourless and odourless. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include dizziness, vomiting, burning eyes, and loss of consciousness.
"It is very dangerous and can potentially be fatal," said Darren Repka, the ATCO Gas customer service manager for Edmonton.
Furnaces and other gas-burning appliances should be checked annually, Repka said. He also recommends the installation of carbon monoxide detectors, which can cost as little as $30 for a battery-powered model.
