For Immediate Release, Thursday, October 06, 2005
Contact:  Suzanne Parsons Stymiest @ 985-898-5243

Checking Roof Vents May Save Lives

            With cooler night-time weather expected over the next several days, the St. Tammany Parish Department of Permits & Regulatory is asking citizens with damaged homes to check the vents for their heating systems BEFORE turning on the system.

            “We have a sea of blue roof tarps in St. Tammany Parish right now,” according to Denise Jobe, director of Permits.  “Most have been professionally installed and are safe.  However, I recommend that everyone check the vents to their heating systems before they turn on the systems.  Gas heaters produce toxic gases that can kill and must be vented.  Most vents in this parish are roof-top vents.  It is important to make sure your vent stack is open and clear before doing any heating.  It should not be covered by a tarp or obstructed in any manner.”

            All plumbing vents, kitchen exhaust vents, and any other type of roof penetration should be kept open and unobstructed to release noxious gases from the home.  These vents are important safety devices. 

            If you have any doubt about the venting of your heating system, do not use the system.  Call a licensed Heating, Ventilation and Cooling contractor to inspect your system.

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