Carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless, and tasteless gas that is lethal and undetectable without a working CO alarm. Over 65% of CO-related injuries and deaths in Ontario occur in the home.
Since 2014, CO alarms have been required by Ontario law outside all sleeping areas in homes with fuel-fired appliances, fireplaces or garages. Ontario is expanding these requirements in the new year to further protect residents from CO exposure.
Starting January 1, 2026, homes that contain a fuel-fired appliance, fireplace, attached garage, or that receive heated air from a fuel-fired appliance located outside the home (such as in a utility shed), will be required to have CO alarms installed on every storey of the home, including storeys with and without sleeping areas.
Expanded CO alarm requirements will also apply to multi-unit residential buildings such as apartment buildings, condominiums, hotels/motels, and retirement homes. In addition, CO alarms will now be mandatory in buildings that contain care occupancies where residents require special care and need assistance to evacuate during an emergency.
Under the Fire Code, carbon monoxide alarms are permitted to be hardwired, battery-operated, or plug-in devices. Many devices on the market are combined units that include both a smoke alarm and CO alarm in one device.
Common symptoms include headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion, weakness, shortness of breath, and in severe cases, loss of consciousness. If a CO alarm sounds or these symptoms occur, everyone should leave the home immediately for fresh air and call 9-11 from outside.
Safety Starts with Awareness:
The Adelaide Metcalfe Fire Department encourages residents to follow these tips to protect yourself and your loved ones from carbon monoxide:
Test carbon monoxide (CO) alarms every month and change the batteries at least once a year. Use Daylight Saving Time as a reminder to “change your clocks, change your batteries.”
If a CO alarm sounds or you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning, leave the home immediately and call 9-1-1 from outside.
Know the difference between the sounds of CO alarms, smoke alarms, and low-battery signals. Replace batteries or the entire alarm when required.
Remember that CO alarms and smoke alarms are not interchangeable; each serves a different purpose.
Have all fuel-burning appliances, heating systems, and fireplaces inspected and cleaned annually by a qualified technician, especially during colder months.
Keep exhaust vents and chimneys clear of nests, leaves, and other debris to ensure proper ventilation.
Never use barbecues, portable fuel-burning camping equipment, or gas-powered generators indoors, including in garages.
For more information on CO alarm maintenance and full details on the new requirements visit the Ontario Government's Page on Carbon Monoxide Safety or contact the Adelaide Metcalfe Fire Department at 519-247-3333.