Though the winter solstice began just two weeks ago, Winter Storm Warnings have already been issued across the state of Nebraska. Powerful cold fronts brought snow and blustery winds – and reminded us how grueling the season can be.
Each winter, Black Hills Energy technicians respond to carbon monoxide (CO) leaks. The hazardous gas is colorless, odorless and tasteless, and sometimes presents itself in the form of homeowners feeling ‘off,’ or noticing their appliances aren’t performing as well as usual.
One customer, JoAnn, had those concerns and made a potentially life-saving call. A natural gas service technician discovered the home’s exhaust vents were clogged, the kitchen stove had a small leak, and there weren’t enough carbon monoxide detectors installed. These three factors allowed CO to build up in the home.
Annual maintenance like checking or replacing batteries in carbon monoxide detectors and sweeping the vent can reveal problems long before physical signs arise.
“Natural gas is a clean, safe fuel that keeps more than 70 million homes and businesses warm,” said Kevin Jarosz, vice president of Nebraska operations for the company. “But, it’s vital to make sure systems that keep you warm and safe in your home are inspected and doing their job well.”
As winter weather continues, consider these recommendations to keep you and your family safe:
*Hire a certified professional to perform an annual heating system inspection.
*Install and maintain carbon monoxide detectors. Check them regularly to ensure batteries are fresh and verify the device itself has not passed its expiration date.
*Know the signs of a carbon monoxide leak:
o Flu-like symptoms, including a scratchy throat, runny nose, headache, drowsiness or nausea
o Frosted windows because of excessive humidity, or a draft from the front of the furnace when it is not turned on
For additional tips, visit blackhillsenergy.com. If you think you have a carbon monoxide leak, get out of your home immediately. Once you’re safe, call 911 or Black Hills Energy’s emergency service line – 888-890-5554 – from your cell phone or nearby location.