Carbon Monoxide Alarms

In October 2014, the Government of Ontario enacted a new law making carbon monoxide alarms mandatory in all Ontario homes. After April 15, 2015, buildings with less than six residential units must obey the law or risk penalties. This revision to the Ontario Fire Code supersedes any existing municipal by-laws. Now, no matter the age of your home, if you have any oil, propane, or gas-burning appliances, a furnace or water heater, wood or gas fireplace, or an attached garage, you must have working carbon monoxide alarms installed near sleeping areas.

Early symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are often mistaken for the flu and include headache, nausea, and fatigue. However, CO is known to disorient victims and is most dangerous when people sleep, failing to realize they are at risk and wake up. Prolonged exposure to CO can lead to brain damage and death.