Heavy snow increases risk of CO poisoning

MAT-SU - An above-average snowfall so far this winter has Mat-Su Borough residents shoveling more than usual. With a winter weather advisory in effect calling for more heavy snows and wind, now is a good time to make your furnace, dryer and sewer vents a safety priority by clearing snow from around them.

Casey Cook, the borough's emergency manager, said this is something that's largely overlooked.

"As the snow is blown around with high winds, it can clog furnace, dryer and sewer vents, which will result in the build-up of carbon monoxide in the home. We get roughly five to six carbon monoxide-related calls per week."

High levels of carbon monoxide can be fatal, he said. Infants, the elderly or those with a history of respiratory disease can be especially vulnerable. Symptoms include severe headaches, nausea and dizziness. If this happens, leave the home immediately and call 911.

It is also recommended to install carbon monoxide detectors in homes with fresh batteries.

For more information, call Cook at 373-8812.