CBC

Sun Dec 31, 12:46 pm

Warm warning

As many Canadians face huge increases in the cost of heating their home this winter, especially in the west, B.C.'s chief gas inspector is cautioning those who are looking to save on sky-rocketing natural gas costs by increasing home insulation. Susana Katz says proper ventilation must be maintained to counter the effects of carbon monoxide created when the gas is burned. To make sure your home is safe, be sure air supply ducts, vents, and chimneys are clear. As well, fuel burning equipment should have plenty of breathing space. If in doubt, Katz suggests getting in touch with a registered gas contractor. B.C. has seen a 71 percent hike in the cost of natural gas in less than a year and faces another 27 percent hike effective tomorrow.

-- Rachel Gibson (rgibson@hotmail.com), January 01, 2001