​​BRAMPTON, ON – Brampton Fire and Emergency Services (BFES) is inviting residents to connect with fire safety staff during Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week. From November 1 to 7, residents will have an opportunity to learn about carbon monoxide (CO) safety, ask questions and learn about updated provincial alarm requirements that came into effect earlier this year.

​Brampton Fire and Emergency Services is raising awareness about carbon monoxide safety through community outreach and public education. Credit: City of Brampton

Join Brampton Fire and Emergency Services to learn about carbon monoxide safety

BFES staff will be on-site at the following locations to share important safety information and help residents understand how to protect themselves and their families.

Brampton Costco

Date: Sunday, November 1

Time: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Location: 100 Biscayne Cres.

Gore Meadows Community Centre and Library

Date: Tuesday, November 3

Time: 3:30 to 6 p.m.

Location: 10150 The Gore Rd.

​Cassie Campbell Community Centre

Date: Wednesday, November 4

​Time: 3:30 to 6 p.m.

Location: 1050 Sandalwood Pkwy. W.

​Understanding the new carbon monoxide alarm requirements

Effective January 1, 2026, Ontario updated its carbon monoxide alarm requirements. In homes where CO alarms are required, alarms must now be installed adjacent to all sleeping areas and on every storey of the home.

Residents are encouraged to review their homes to ensure alarms are installed in all required locations, test them monthly and replace batteries and devices according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Often called the "silent killer," carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless and tasteless gas that can cause serious illness or death. It can be produced by fuel-burning appliances and equipment, including furnaces, fireplaces, water heaters, gas stoves and generators. Without a working CO alarm, dangerous levels of the gas can go undetected.

Simple steps to keep your home CO safe

In addition to having working carbon monoxide alarms, residents can reduce the risk of CO exposure by taking a few important precautions:

• Have fuel-burning appliances inspected and maintained annually by a qualified technician.
• Keep exterior vents and exhausts clear of debris, snow and other obstructions.
• Never operate vehicles, generators or other fuel-burning equipment in enclosed spaces.
• Ensure everyone in the household knows what to do if a carbon monoxide alarm sounds.​

Steps to take in a carbon monoxide emergency

If a carbon monoxide alarm sounds or someone experiences symptoms of possible CO exposure, leave the building immediately and call 911 from a safe location.

Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning can include headaches, dizziness, nausea, fatigue and confusion. Severe exposure can lead to loss of consciousness.

Through community outreach and year-round public education, BFES continues to help residents stay informed and take proactive steps to protect their households.

For more information about carbon monoxide safety, alarm requirements and prevention tips, visit brampton.ca/carbonmonoxideweek.​​​​​