Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week 2025
November 1 – 7
“Beat the Silent Killer”
Carbon Monoxide (CO) Awareness Week takes place every year from November 1 to 7 in Ontario. This important public safety initiative is aimed at educating the community about the dangers of carbon monoxide — often called the silent killer — and how to stay safe.
What is Carbon Monoxide?
Carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless, and tasteless gas that is produced when fuels such as natural gas, gasoline, wood, or propane do not burn completely. It can accumulate in enclosed spaces, and breathing it can cause serious illness or death.
Sources of Carbon Monoxide
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Gas furnaces, fireplaces, and water heaters
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Wood-burning stoves and fireplaces
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Generators and gas-powered tools
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Vehicles left running in attached garages
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Blocked chimneys or flues
CO Safety Tips
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Install CO alarms outside all sleeping areas in your home. If your home has multiple levels, install at least one CO alarm per floor.
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Test your CO alarm monthly and replace batteries annually, or as required by the manufacturer.
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Replace CO alarms every 7–10 years, depending on the model.
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Never run a generator or BBQ inside your home, garage, or near a window.
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Ensure fuel-burning appliances are inspected annually by a TSSA-certified technician.
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Never warm up your vehicle in an attached garage, even with the door open.
Know the Symptoms of CO Poisoning
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Headache, dizziness, nausea
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Confusion, drowsiness
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Loss of consciousness
If you or anyone in your home experiences these symptoms and a CO alarm is sounding, leave the building immediately and call 9-1-1.
It’s the Law in Ontario
Under the Ontario Fire Code, working CO alarms are required in all homes with a fuel-burning appliance, fireplace, or attached garage. Failure to comply can result in fines.