In Montreal, a major Canadian city in Quebec, a severe episode of carbon monoxide exposure unfolded as residents faced a prolonged power outage during a spell of freezing rain. Authorities reported that at least 130 people were poisoned as households sheltered from the bitter weather, using indoor heating and cooking devices that burn fuel in spaces without adequate ventilation. Health officials confirmed that more than 130 individuals required hospitalization due to carbon monoxide exposure, underscoring the inherent danger of running fuel-burning heaters or cookstoves inside enclosed living areas when electricity is unavailable. Public health agencies and local authorities urged residents to adhere to safety guidelines to prevent further harm while crews worked to restore power. These warnings emphasized the importance of operating alternatives that minimize carbon monoxide risks and the need for proper ventilation in any space where heat or cooking actions might take place indoors. (Citation: CBC News)
The incident came amid a wider disruption caused by the freezing rain, which disrupted electrical service across southern Quebec and parts of Ontario. The provincial utility reported that a significant portion of customers lost power, with many households affected in Montreal and nearby communities. By the next day, a substantial share of those affected had their electricity restored, though thousands in Montreal remained without power for extended periods. The episode highlighted the pressing challenge of keeping homes warm and safe during extended outages and the critical importance of relying on safe heating and cooking options when the power is out. The situation also brought attention to the need for emergency preparedness, including the availability of battery-powered or non-combustion heat sources and clear guidance on safe operation in residences. (Citation: CBC News)