Posted on 01/23/16
| News Source: Rockville Patch
County fire officials are urging residents to shovel out vents for furnaces and air intakes as snow builds up.
GAITHERSBURG, MD — The snowstorm has created a new hazard residents might not be aware of: the need to dig out vents along the sides of home to prevent carbon monoxide buildups indoors.
The Montgomery County fire department and Baltimore Gas & Electric took to social media to warn of an increase in the number of carbon monoxide incidents and detector activations caused by snow accumulations.
So, as you head outside to dig out driveways and sidewalks, there are other places around your home’s exterior to clear.
The high snow drifts block furnace vents and air intakes to some homes, predominantly those with newer high-efficiency furnaces. Those furnaces vent out the side of a home rather than up through the roof.
Residents must clear snow from these vents and air intakes. If they are blocked, dangerous carbon monoxide will back into the home.
Some newer high efficiency furnaces have automatic shut-off’s that shut down the furnace when the vents are blocked. Keep a three-foot area clear around the vent and intake tubes outside to be safe.
Heating and dryer vents should also be cleared of snow to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
And authorities remind residents never run generators in the home, garage or other enclosed spaces. If your CO alarm sounds, immediately evacuate and call 9-1-1.