By: Devan Mighton, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Lakeshore News Reporter
As winter storms bring snow and wind to communities across Essex County, fire departments are reminding residents to protect themselves from a silent but deadly threat: carbon monoxide (CO). Effective January 1, 2026, the Ontario Fire Code will require all homes and apartments to have carbon monoxide alarms not just near sleeping areas, but on every floor.
“Carbon monoxide is called the silent killer for a reason,” said Tecumseh Fire Chief Wade Bondy. “It’s odourless, tasteless, and can be produced by fuel-burning appliances like your furnace when they aren’t working properly. Symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, or disorientation may appear suddenly, and exposure while sleeping is especially dangerous. A functioning CO alarm is the best way to protect your household.”
CO is produced when fuels such as natural gas, propane, oil, or wood are burned incompletely. Common household sources include furnaces, water heaters, stoves, fireplaces, and dryers. If inhaled, CO replaces oxygen in the blood, preventing organs and tissues from getting the oxygen they need. Over time, this can cause serious illness or death.
The updated Fire Code applies to all homes with fuel-burning appliances, fireplaces, attached garages, or heating systems outside the home, such as in a utility shed. Homes affected include detached or semi-detached houses, townhouses, and cottages.
Under the new rules, homeowners and landlords must ensure carbon monoxide alarms are installed:
*Adjacent to each sleeping area (near bedrooms)
*On every floor of the home, including floors without bedrooms
“Residents should ensure there is a working carbon monoxide alarm on every floor of their home and adjacent to each sleeping area, and tenants should ensure their landlord does the same,” said Mike Wiley, Captain and Fire Prevention Officer with LaSalle Fire Service. “Following these simple steps helps protect your home and keeps you in compliance with the Fire Code.”
Choosing the right alarm is also important. Fire officials recommend units that carry a recognized testing agency logo, such as CSA (Canadian Standards Association), ULC (Underwriters Laboratories of Canada), or ETL (Intertek). Alarms can be hardwired, battery-operated, or plug-in models. Many modern devices combine smoke and CO detection in a single unit.
Winter weather can make CO buildup more likely. Lakeshore Fire Chief Jason Suchiu reminded residents: “Raising awareness about carbon monoxide is crucial for the safety of our communities. Carbon monoxide has no smell or taste, which makes being proactive even more important. Taking a few small steps today can help prevent dangerous, and even deadly, consequences.”
Local fire departments are also sharing general winter safety tips:
*Shovel snow away from fire hydrants so emergency crews can access them quickly.
*Keep driveways and sidewalks clear for safe access.
*Keep lights on and house numbers visible so first responders can locate homes easily.
*Use space heaters safely, keeping them at least one metre from combustible materials and never leaving them unattended.
Homeowners are responsible for CO alarm compliance in owner-occupied homes, while landlords are responsible in rental properties. Residents unsure about installation, placement, or device maintenance are encouraged to contact their local fire department.
By understanding the new requirements and taking simple precautions, residents can reduce their risk of CO exposure and keep their families safe during the winter months.
For more information on the updated carbon monoxide alarm requirements, visit www.Ontario.ca/CarbonMonoxide.
