The Saskatoon Fire Department responded to a 911 call this morning (Thurs), requesting fire crews to check the levels of carbon monoxide inside a six-unit townhouse in the 1100 block of McKercher Drive. A news release from the Fire Department says responders were told that a carbon monoxide alarm had gone off in the home on Wednesday night, and then in the morning, one person woke up feeling dizzy. Elevated carbon monoxide levels were identified in one of the units. Testing was done in all of the connected suites.

During the initial search, three people were found to be exhibiting signs of exposure. Their levels returned to normal once they were in the fresh air and no one was transported to hospital. The Fire Department says after ventilating the home, a search was conducted and carbon monoxide was found to be coming from a natural gas water heater that wasn’t burning efficiently. SaskEnergy shut it down, and with the ventilation, the levels began decreasing immediately. As of July 1st of this year, the Construction Codes Act requires CO alarms in every home.

The Fire Department reminds everyone that CO is an invisible killer and is a concern any time of the year. Early symptoms of CO exposure include feeling lightheaded, tired or dizzy. If you or another person experience these symptoms, everyone – including pets – should leave the affected area immediately and find a space outdoors where you can safely call 9-1-1.