Ontario's main safety agency is reminding homeowners that an abundance of snow isn't just a boon for skiers and sledders.
In a bulletin on Thursday, the Technical Standards and Safety Authority warned a buildup of snow and ice can be hazardous if piles end up blocking or covering furnace exhaust vents, gas meters and fuel tanks.
"Exhaust vents, in particular, often extend out the side of a home as low as one foot above ground, so they have the potential to get covered and blocked easily without a homeowner's knowledge," the agency said.
It added: "A snow-covered gas meter can interfere with its ability to regulate gas pressure, creating other serious safety risks."
Vents and tanks should be cleared with a soft tool, like a vehicle snow brush, to prevent equipment from being damaged. The use of shovels and snowblowers isn't recommended around vents and tanks.
Meanwhile, tips on how to avoid being exposed to carbon monoxide are available online at cosafety.ca.