With summer rains increasing the risk of flooding, the Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) cautions Ontarians to be aware of fuels and elevator related hazards that can occur during flooding conditions. When flooding occurs, key energy infrastructures can become temporarily out of commission, tempting residents to turn to alternatives that may be unsafe.
Did you Know?
- Portable, fuel-fired appliances designed for outdoor use are never safe to use indoors – They can cause carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, fires and other harmful risks.
- Generators used outside must be situated away from open windows, doors and vents – CO produced by a generator can seep into these openings.
- CO gas can also accumulate in car ports, garages and covered patios – Never use portable, fuel-fired generators, propane BBQs and other fuel-burning outdoor appliances in these areas to prevent CO poisoning.
- Drying a basement with commercial ventilating fans can create a ‘negative pressure’ environment – This can cause CO from appliances in the home to spill back into the home, so ensure there is proper ventilation during the procedure.
- Using an elevator in a flooding building is a safety hazard – Water can accumulate in elevator shafts or adversely affect an elevator’s operation leading to entrapment or injury.
Visit TSSA.org/Seasonal-Flooding-Safety for TSSA’s full seasonal flooding safety guide. Residents and businesses unsure of how flooding conditions may affect the safeness of specific TSSA-regulated devices should contact TSSA.