Carbon Monoxide Alarms Save Lives

October 6, 2019
Category: 
Fire & Emergency Services
Carbon Monoxide Detector

What's The Risk?

  • Over 65% of all carbon monoxide (CO) deaths and injuries in Ontario occur in homes.
  • Many homes in Ontario have on average 4 to 6 fuel-burning appliances that produce CO: fireplace, stove, gas dryer, water heater, furnace, portable fuel heater.

What Can Alarms Do?

  • Only working CO alarms give you the warning of the presence of CO you need to keep your family safe.
  • Exposure to CO can cause flu-like symptoms.
  • If your CO alarm sounds and you or other occupants suffer from symptoms of CO poisoning, get everyone out of the home immediately. Call 9-1-1 or your emergency number from outside the building.

How Do I Protect My Family?

  • Ensure all fuel-burning appliances and vents are inspected annually. Find a registered contractor at cosafety.ca.
  • Install CO alarms outside all sleeping areas if your home has a fuel-burning appliance, fireplace, or attached garage.
  • For best protection, install CO alarms on every storey of the home.
  • Test CO alarms monthly and change the batteries at least once a year. Replace alarms according to manufacturers' recommendations.