Carbon Monoxide Information and Safety
Carbon Monoxide is known as the silent killer because you can't see, smell, or taste it. Exposure can cause serious illness or death within minutes. A working carbon monoxide alarm is the only way to detect this dangerous gas in your home.
Where does Carbon Monoxide Come From?
Carbon monoxide is produced when fuels such as natural gas, propane, oil, wood, or charcoal do not burn completely.
Common sources of carbon monoxide include:
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furnaces, fireplaces, boilers, and water heaters
- gas stoves and fuel-burning dryers
- vehicles running in attached garages
- portable generators, barbecues, and propane heaters
- blocked chimneys, vents, or damaged exhaust systems
Carbon monoxide can build up inside a home when appliances are not working properly or ventilation is blocked. Snow, ice, leaves, and other debris can prevent dangerous gases from escaping.
Never use outdoor fuel-burning equipment, including barbecues, camp stoves, and generators inside your home or garage.
Ontario Fire Code Legislation
Effective January 1, 2026, carbon monoxide alarms are required in homes with fuel-burning appliances, fireplaces, attached garages, or certain fuel-burning heating systems.
In these homes, alarms must be installed:
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next to each sleeping area
- on every storey without a sleeping area
Additional requirements apply to apartment buildings, condominiums, retirement homes, and other multi-unit residential buildings.
Homeowners and landlords are responsible for ensuring required carbon monoxide alarms are installed, maintained, and working properly.
Choose alarms with a recognized Canadian certification mark, CSA, ULC, or ETL.
How to Protect You Home and Family
A few simple precautions can help prevent carbon monoxide poisoning:
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test your alarms monthly
- check alarm expiry dates
- maintain fuel-burning appliances
- keep vents clear
- never idle vehicles in attached garages
- know your alarm signals
What to Do if Your Carbon Monoxide Alarm Sounds
Never ignore a carbon monoxide alarm.
- Get everyone outside into fresh air immediately.
- Once outside, call 911.
- Tell emergency responders if anyone is experiencing symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, or other flu-like symptoms
- Do not re-enter the building until emergency responders advise that it is safe.