Snow creates carbon monoxide dangers

WEST SENECA, N.Y. (WIVB) - They know carbon monoxide can kill. Now, West Seneca Police have a new warning about the dangers of this colorless, odorless, dangerous gas.

It's certainly frightening when your carbon monoxide detector goes off inside your home. First responders have been getting a few calls about this, and there's a reason for it.

High snow drifts were found to be blocking furnace vents in some homes that have newer high-efficiency furnaces. West Seneca Police are putting out a warning.

West Seneca Police Department Chief Edward Gehan said, "They vent out the side rather than up through the roof, so the venting has to be kept free and clear of snow. If it plugs up, the carbon monoxide would go back into the home."

Chief Gehan says that some areas of West Seneca got over three feet of snow. Some high efficiency furnaces have an automatic shut off when the vents are blocked, but not all of the. First responders say it is important to keep a three foot area clear by the vent.