By: Michael Bennett, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, The Ridgetown Independent News
Stricter safety regulations on household carbon monoxide detectors went into effect on January 1 under the updated Ontario Fire Code.
Carbon monoxide alarms are now required in more locations in houses, apartments, condominiums and rental units to help prevent injuries and fatalities caused by this ‘silent killer.’
Carbon monoxide is an invisible, odourless gas produced when fuels such as natural gas, propane, or wood do not burn completely in appliances like furnaces, stoves, water heaters, and fireplaces.
“Carbon monoxide is called the silent killer for a reason; it’s invisible, odourless, and can be deadly,” stated Chatham-Kent Fire Chief Chris Case.
“These new rules will save lives by ensuring alarms are installed where they’re needed most,” said Case. “We urge every homeowner, tenant, and property manager to act now and protect their families.”
CO alarms must be installed on every storey of a home, even those without bedrooms.
If the home has a fuel-burning appliance, fireplace, attached garage or is heated by air from a fuel-burning appliance outside the residence, CO alarms must be placed adjacent to each sleeping area and on every storey.
CO alarms are required in apartments and condominiums if the unit has a fuel-burning appliance or fireplace, or if the building has a service room or garage and the unit is above, below, or beside these areas. Units heated by air from a fuel-burning appliance outside the unit also require alarms.
Detectors must be placed adjacent to each sleeping area and on every storey of the unit.Public corridors heated by air from a fuel-burning appliance must also have CO alarms.
According to provincial data, over 65% of CO-related injuries and deaths in Ontario occur in homes, prompting these new safety measures.
Residents are also encouraged to test alarms regularly and replace batteries as needed.
If you need assistance with your alarms, contact Chatham-Kent Fire & Rescue for a CHiRP Home Alarm Check at www.ckfire.ca.
For more information about the new legislation for carbon monoxide, visit Carbon monoxide safety at www.ontario.ca
