Carbon Monoxide Detectors

As New Laws for Carbon Monoxide Detectors came in on January 1st 2026, Usborne and Hibbert Mutual Fire Insurance Company focus for the month is on placement of Carbon Monoxide Detectors and who is responsible for them.

What is Carbon Monoxide?

• A colorless, odorless, tasteless gas produced when fuels like natural gas, oil, propane, wood, or gasoline burn.
• Called the “silent killer” because it’s undetectable without an alarm.
• Exposure causes flu-like symptoms (headache, dizziness, nausea, fatigue) and can be fatal quickly at high levels.

New Ontario Fire Code Requirements (Effective Jan 1, 2026)

• Location: Alarms are required adjacent to every sleeping area and on every storey without a sleeping area (e.g., basement, main floor).
• Sources: Mandatory for homes with fuel-burning appliances (furnaces, water heaters, stoves, wood stoves), fireplaces, or attached garages.
• Landlord/Tenant: Landlords must install and maintain them; tenants must not tamper with them.
• Compliance: Failure to comply is an offense with potential fines up to $50,000 for individuals or $500,000 for corporations.

Key Safety Actions

• Install Alarms: Get CO alarms that meet the new code requirements.
• Test & Maintain: Test alarms regularly and have fuel-burning appliances inspected annually by a qualified technician.
• Clear Vents: Keep chimneys, vents, and exhausts clear of snow, debris, and obstructions.
• Never Indoors: Don’t run cars or gas barbecues in attached garages or indoors.

Where to Get More Info

For more information you can contact your local fire department or Building Department

Carbon Monoxide Detectors