The arrival of autumn has brought cooler temperatures, along with rain and cold weather, offering a perfect opportunity to light up the fireplace at home for warmth and comfort. However, the National Emergency and Civil Protection Authority (ANEPC) has issued some guidelines and recommendations for the public to consider.
“With the onset of colder weather, the need for heating increases. Sometimes, equipment such as fireplaces, braziers, or gas heaters might emit carbon monoxide – an invisible, odorless, and potentially fatal gas,” stated a social media post.
The ANEPC provided several recommendations:
- Avoid using devices for purposes other than intended (e.g., braziers, grills);
- Keep the area well-ventilated;
- Do not store gas cylinders in basements, cellars, or near heat sources;
- Before going to bed or leaving the house, ensure you have switched off or extinguished heating devices;
- Avoid sleeping close to heating appliances;
- If experiencing signs of poisoning, contact the Poison Information Center at 800 250 250 or call 112 in severe cases.
