Carbon monoxide testing was done on every floor and the building was deemed safe for residents to return, the Ottawa fire service said
A high-rise building on St. Laurent Boulevard in the Vanier neighbourhood was evacuated Sunday morning after multiple residents reported an overwhelming “paint-like smell” inside, Ottawa Fire Services said.
The fire service’s hazardous materials team found “elevated” carbon monoxide levels after arriving at the building, near Coté and Guy streets, according to tweets posted online by the service.
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The hazmat team went floor-to-floor to take readings and ventilate parts of the building using high-pressure fans.
Carbon monoxide testing was eventually done on every floor and the building was deemed safe for residents to return and the scene was cleared, the fire service said.
On its website, to avoid elevated carbon monoxide levels in the home, the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs recommends that people regularly maintain their appliances and make sure they’re properly ventilated. It also recommends that fuel-burning appliances are inspected at least once per year. Chimneys should also be inspected at least once per year and cleaned by a W.E.T.T. certified professional.
People should make sure they have a working, certified carbon monoxide alarm properly installed in or near sleeping areas in the home. If an alarm goes off, the association says people should leave the building and call their local fire department for assistance.
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