Carbon monoxide alarms can save your life

November 1 to 7 is Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week and Mississauga Fire and Emergency Services (MFES) is raising awareness about carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning and the importance of having a working carbon monoxide alarm at home.

Known as the “silent killer,” carbon monoxide is a harmful gas you can’t see, taste or smell. It’s harmful to humans and pets, and exposure can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning, which can be fatal. Carbon monoxide is created from the incomplete burning of fossil fuels such as natural gas, propane and wood. The main source of carbon monoxide in your home is a fuel-burning appliance/heater, a fireplace or an attached garage.

On average, Ontario homes have between 4 to 6 fuel-burning appliances that produce carbon monoxide such as a stove or furnace.

Carbon monoxide alarms are required by provincial law in all homes that have fuel-burning appliances such as a stove or furnace, heaters, a fireplace or an attached garage. The carbon monoxide alarm must be located outside all sleeping areas. This applies to all homes including condos, apartments, townhouses and semi-detached, detached homes, cottages and rental properties.

For carbon monoxide alarms, be sure to:

• Install them outside of all sleeping areas
• Test them monthly
• Replace them every 10 years
• For extra protection, install the alarms on every level of your home

Ensure all fuel-burning appliances and vents in your home are inspected annually.

Additional information

What are the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning?

Carbon monoxide poisoning symptoms are described as “flu-like” symptoms, such as:

• chest pain
• confusion
• dizziness
• headache
• upset stomach/vomiting
• weakness

What to do if you suspect you have been exposed to carbon monoxide poisoning or if your carbon monoxide alarm is triggered?

• Find fresh air immediately
• Call 911

Public information sessions

Interested in learning more? Visit one of our public information sessions to learn about carbon monoxide prevention and to talk to a MFES Public Education Officer about carbon monoxide alarms and steps to check your home.

Monday, November 4 – Clarkson Library from to 7:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Tuesday, November 5 – Burnhamthorpe Community Centre from 7 to 8 p.m.

Wednesday, November 6 – Malton Community Centre from 7 to 8 p.m.

Thursday, November 7 – Meadowvale 4 Rinks from 7 to 8 p.m.

This month, be proactive about your family’s health and well-being. Watch our Youtube video to learn more and pay attention to the tips offered by MFES’s Public Education team. Carbon monoxide poisoning is preventable and not paying attention to alarms can cost you your life or someone else’s.

Tags

• Fire and Emergency Services
• Public Safety