Carbon Monoxide Awareness

New for 2026!

Starting January 1, 2026, carbon monoxide (CO) alarms must be installed on every storey of a home and outside all sleeping areas. CO alarms are required if a home has a fuel‑burning appliance such as a water heater, furnace, or gas stove, or features like a fireplace or an attached garage.

‭(Hidden)‬ CO Week Events

Carbon Monoxide Alarm

Install carbon monoxide alarms beside all sleeping areas and on every storey of the home. Consider installing smoke/CO combination alarms.

Test Alarm

Test alarms monthly. Consider using alarms that have a worry-free 10 year lithium battery.

Propane Heaters

Never use propane heaters inside the home or garage.

Barbecues

Never cook with barbecues or propane cookers inside the home or garage.

Garage

Never warm a vehicle or fuel burning power tool in the garage, even with the door open

Inspect and Maintain

Have a trained, TSSA-certified fuel technician inspect your furnace and fuel-burning appliances on a yearly basis. Keep outdoor exhaust vents clear.

CO FAQs

Carbon monoxide, or “CO,” is an odourless, colourless, poisonous gas

Many Ontario households have, on average, 4 – 6 fuel-burning appliances that produce carbon monoxide, this includes:

Furnace
BBQ
Stove
Water heater
Dryer
Fuel fired fireplace
Blocked vents or chimney
Portable fuel fired generator
Vehicle running in attached garage

Test CO alarms monthly or in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

Replace alarm batteries at least once a year or whenever the low-battery warning sounds. Never wait.
Know the difference between a low-battery warning and an emergency alarm – consult the CO alarm manufacturer’s instructions.

Replace alarms in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

Dull headache
Weakness
Dizziness
Nausea or vomiting
Shortness of breath
Confusion
Blurred vision
Loss of consciousness or death

If you live in an apartment or condo you may be required to install a carbon monoxide alarm if:

• You have a fuel-burning appliance or fireplace

• You're beside/above/below a service room or garage

• Your unit is heated by air from a shared fuel-burning appliance (from Jan 1, 2026) Learn More: Ontario Fire Code Updates