Local Residents Reminded to Ensure Carbon Monoxide Alarms in Working Condition

Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week running November 1st to 7th.

St. Catharines Fire Services is marking Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week with a reminder to residents. 

Property owners are being urged to ensure all carbon monoxide detectors inside the home are in working order. 

You're also encouraged to routinely inspect fuel burning appliances.

"Carbon monoxide truly is the silent killer, you can’t see it, you can’t smell it. Working alarms are the sentry that guards your family against the threat, but for them to do the job they need to be installed properly and in working order," said Deputy Fire Chief Dave Upper, adding, "this week is the perfect time to check the batteries in alarms, ensure they are properly installed, and that they have not expired."

By law, property owners in Ontario must install carbon monoxide alarms in sleeping areas of the home that have wood burning fireplaces, attached garages, or fuel-burning appliances such as gas furnaces, gas stoves, or gas water heaters. 

The law also applies to residential homes with several units, and low and high rise buildings. 

Exposure to carbon monoxide can cause flu-like symptoms such as headaches, drowsiness, confusion, nausea, dizziness, loss of consciousness and even death. 

If you hear a carbon monoxide alarm and notice someone suffering from exposure symptoms, you're advised to leave the home immediately and call 911. 

If no one has any symptoms, ensure the alarm doesn't need new batteries and isn't expired before calling 911.