BRAMPTON, ON – As the cooler months approach, Brampton Fire and Emergency Services is reminding residents of the importance of carbon monoxide (CO) safety. Carbon monoxide is a silent killer – an odourless, tasteless and invisible gas that can cause serious illness or even death when undetected. During Carbon Monoxide Week from November 1 to November 7, the City is encouraging everyone to take simple but life-saving steps to ensure their homes and families are protected.
This year’s campaign, sponsored by Enbridge, emphasizes the theme ‘3 Steps to CO Safety: Inspect, Detect, Clear’. These easy-to-follow steps are designed to help residents prevent carbon monoxide build-up, properly detect the gas and stay safe.
Three steps to CO safety
- Inspect: To keep your home safe, ensure your furnace is inspected and cleaned by a licensed technician annually. Regular maintenance is key to preventing carbon monoxide from being released into your home from malfunctioning equipment.
- Detect: Having properly installed carbon monoxide alarms is the most efficient way to detect the presence of CO in your home. Brampton Fire and Emergency Services recommends installing working carbon monoxide alarms beside all sleeping areas. Test the alarms monthly to ensure they are functioning properly and replace the batteries every year.
- Clear: In addition to alarms and inspections, it’s essential to keep all exterior home vents clear, including your furnace exhaust pipe. Blocked or clogged vents can trap carbon monoxide inside your home, creating dangerous conditions.
Why CO safety matters
Carbon monoxide poisoning symptoms often mimic the flu and include headaches, dizziness, confusion and shortness of breath. Without proper detection, CO can be lethal, making it critical to for homeowners to stay vigilant.
This Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week, take the time to inspect your home’s heating systems, ensure your alarms are in working order and educate your loved ones about the dangers of carbon monoxide. By following the ‘Inspect, Detect, Clear’ steps, you can keep your loved ones safe from this silent threat.
Quotes
“Carbon monoxide poisoning is entirely preventable with the right precautions in place. Knowing what carbon monoxide is, how it’s produced and how to detect it can save lives. We encourage residents to follow these simple steps to protect their families.” - Nick Ruller, Fire Chief, Brampton Fire and Emergency Services
