AN IMPORTANT SAFETY MESSAGE FROM BLACK HILLS ENERGY
Roof vents damaged during summer storms could lead to ventilation issues this fall.
As outdoor temperatures begin to drop, families will soon be turning their heating equipment on to stay warm at home. But, local residents should be aware that severe hail from summer storms has caused damage to some roof vents in the Cheyenne area. Damaged vents can create a safety hazard due to the lack of proper ventilation for furnace equipment. To avoid serious safety issues, homeowners should have roof vents inspected by a certified heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) specialist.
“It’s important to schedule an annual ventilation and heating inspection to ensure that your equipment is running properly and efficiently,” said Shirley Welte, Vice President of Black Hills Energy’s Wyoming electric and natural gas operations. “This is especially important this fall due to the severe summer storms which affected structures in parts of Cheyenne and the surrounding areas.”
Black Hills Energy also recommends that customers install and regularly inspect carbon monoxide detectors. Detectors may offer an early warning of carbon monoxide, a colorless and odorless byproduct of the incomplete burning of fuels including wood, gasoline, charcoal and natural gas.
Signs of a potential carbon monoxide exposure can include, slight headache, nausea, and fatigue. Other indicators in the home could include, soot buildup on or near a fireplace or furnace chimney or excessive moisture on windows and walls. If you think carbon monoxide is present, leave the premises immediately and call 911 or the Black Hills Energy emergency service line, 800-694-8989, from a nearby location.
Visit www.blackhillsenergy.com for more safety information.