The Los Angeles County Fire Department, the LACoFD Hazmat Team and the Southern California Gas Company responded to a report of a carbon monoxide leak in an apartment complex in Canyon Country.

The LACoFD got a call at approximately 6:50 a.m. Sunday about a person having trouble breathing at the Park Sierra Apartments on the 27000 block of Fahren Court, said LACoFD officials.

Initial tests showed no carbon monoxide present in any of the units, said Jose Gonzalez, the incident commander at SoCalGas.

Residents from eight units were evacuated out of caution, and natural gas service was turned off while SoCalGas crews complete the investigation, said Sergio Jimenez with SoCalGas.

SoCalGas crews are expected to complete their inspection shortly as of 3:00 p.m. Sunday, said Gonzalez.

To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, SoCalGas has provided a few tips:

• Never use a gas oven, portable barbeque or range for space heating.
• Carbon monoxide poisoning can occur as a result of a poorly ventilated heater. Have natural gas furnaces checked at least once a year by a licensed heating contractor or SoCalGas.
• Vacuum and clean regularly in and around the furnace, particularly around the burner compartment to prevent a build-up of dust and lint.
• Never store items in, on or around the appliance that can obstruct airflow.
• If you suspect that one is suffering from carbon monoxide poisoning, call 911 immediately. Symptoms can include nausea, headaches, paralysis and even death.