This summer SaskEnergy is highlighting the dangers of the “silent killer”, otherwise known as carbon monoxide.

Carbon monoxide gets its nickname because it’s a colourless, odourless gas. Although the gas is commonly associated with winter, many summer activities and items can lead to a CO build up as well.

One item SaskEnergy is particularly concerned about this summer is portable, wall- or window-mounted air conditioners. The air conditioners can sometimes create negative pressure, leading to combustion gases, including CO, being brought back into the home.

Alana Johnson, SaskEnergy’s Director of Strategic Communications, explains that having a CO alarm where people live is the first step to keeping people safe.

“Having a CO alarm in your house, your cabin, your RV is important all year round, because there’s things that people do in the summer that can lead to CO poison or CO accumulation.”

There are a few recommendations from SaskEnergy to prevent a CO build up at home. Johnson recommends homeowners have a CO alarm, get equipment regularly checked, and to not use outdoor equipment indoors.