The heat is affecting everyone. After the firefighters’ intervention in an apartment on Jana Pawła II Street, this time operations were carried out on Wańkowicza Street. The reason was the same – an increase in carbon monoxide levels. Fortunately, no one was injured here either.
This time, too, the elevated carbon monoxide levels may have been caused by ventilation problems resulting from the prevailing heat. The firefighters aired out and checked the apartments with their detectors. A representative of the property manager, Spółdzielnia Mieszkaniowa Bolesławianka, was also present at the scene.
What happens in ventilation ducts during hot weather?
During hot weather, the draft in ventilation and flue ducts may weaken or sometimes even reverse. This happens because the high temperature outside reduces the temperature difference between the apartment and its surroundings, on which the proper operation of chimneys depends.
As a result, fumes from a gas water heater may be discharged less effectively, and in extreme cases they may flow back into the apartment. This phenomenon is particularly dangerous because the fumes contain carbon monoxide (CO) – an odourless and highly poisonous gas.
That is why we remind you of the need for regular inspections of chimney ducts and the use of functioning carbon monoxide detectors. Remember that a detector can save a life.