With the colder months arriving in Atlantic Canada, now is the time to think about your indoor air quality. Poor installation, ventilation and maintenance of fuel-burning appliances and equipment, such as a fireplace, gas oven and generators, can lead to a dangerous buildup of carbon monoxide (CO), a gas that causes illness and can lead to death.
Known as the “silent killer” due to its lack of smell, taste or colour, CO is produced when hydrocarbon fuels such as charcoal, wood, gasoline, natural gas or propane are incompletely burned. The only way to detect the presence of this lethal gas is with a working CO alarm, which provides real-time monitoring for one of the most dangerous but preventable household hazards.
According to Health Canada, nearly two-thirds of reported CO poisoning cases in Canada occur during the fall and winter. The early signs of mild to moderate CO poisoning may include a headache, shortness of breath and fatigue, while higher levels of poisoning can lead to vomiting, loss of consciousness, coma and even death.
A CO alarm is a small investment that can make a big difference in your home’s safety. An alarm costs anywhere from $20 to over $200, depending on its features. Combined, CO and smoke alarms can help ensure that your family are alerted to smoke before it results in CO release. (Note: a CO alarm does not replace the need for smoke alarms on each level of your home.)
Install your CO and smoke alarms strategically around your home. In a multi-level home, there should be at least one of each type of alarm on each floor. Ideal places for a CO alarm include near bedrooms so it is close enough to wake you and your family if levels rise during the night. Also, install an alarm around appliances that produce combustion gases, such as a gas stove, fireplace and water heater.
To prevent false alarms, don’t install either of these alarms in locations with constant humidity (such as a bathroom) or near an open window where the fluctuating airflow could affect readings. Also, don’t place an alarm in an area of extreme temperature, such as close to a heating vent or stove.
Regular testing of your CO and smoke alarms is essential. Most CO alarms have a test button that emits a loud beep to confirm its functionality. If it doesn’t beep, replace the batteries or the entire unit, if needed.
Many alarms are battery operated, while others are hardwired with a battery backup. In either case, replace the batteries annually or as indicated by the manufacturer. CO and smoke alarms typically will last five to seven years. Most models have a label indicating the name of the manufacturer and/or the expiration date, so mark your calendar to replace them accordingly. If your alarm chirps regularly despite fresh batteries, it is likely time to replace it.
Regular maintenance of your CO alarms is essential. Dust and debris can obstruct the unit’s sensor, affecting its accuracy. Routinely clean your alarms by gently vacuuming the outer casing to remove any buildup.
Insurance Bureau of Canada is a proud sponsor of the 2024 Atlantic Canada CO Education Tour by the Hawkins-Gignac Foundation for CO Education, which set out on a mission during Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week (November 1-7) to keep homes safe in Atlantic Canada. Together, we donated 300 CO alarms to the Charlottetown Fire Department, Moncton Fire Department and Halifax Regional Fire & Emergency. In addition, the foundation shared hundreds of CO information brochures and Ricky the CO Safety Ranger activity books for children.
This fall, make sure you have CO alarms installed and in working order. You’ll sleep easier knowing that you and your family are protected.
Check out our winter safety resources for more seasonal tips.
