2022 Regional Emergency Services Firetruck
FORT McMURRAY — A downtown apartment complex in Fort McMurray was temporarily evacuated Thursday evening after high levels of carbon monoxide were detected in the building.
Emergency crews were called to River Ridge Estates shortly before 6:30 p.m. following reports of a smoke-like odour. Firefighters arriving on scene confirmed the smell, and their portable carbon monoxide monitors soon indicated elevated levels of the gas.
Additional fire crews, paramedics and utility workers responded as the building was evacuated. All floors were cleared by about 7:30 p.m., with transit buses brought in to provide a warm place for residents.
Utility crews later shut down parts of the building’s heating and ventilation system, allowing carbon monoxide levels to drop. Residents were allowed to return to their units shortly after 9 p.m.
Officials say the suspected cause was a malfunctioning HVAC unit.
Acting regional fire chief Kelly Roberts says the incident highlights the importance of early reporting and having working carbon monoxide detectors.
She says carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless gas that cannot be detected without an alarm, and is urging residents to ensure detectors are installed on every level of their homes and near sleeping areas.
Officials also remind residents that common sources of carbon monoxide include fuel-burning appliances and vehicles running in attached garages, and that symptoms of exposure can include dizziness, nausea, confusion and shortness of breath.
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