Ontario will introduce expanded carbon monoxide alarm requirements on Jan. 1, 2026, under updates to the Ontario Fire Code aimed at reducing preventable injuries and deaths from the “silent killer.”
Carbon monoxide is an invisible, odourless gas created when fuels such as natural gas, propane or wood do not burn completely in appliances including furnaces, stoves, water heaters and fireplaces. Provincial data shows more than 65 per cent of CO-related injuries and deaths occur inside homes.
The updated regulations will require alarms in more locations across houses, apartments, condominiums and rental units. The rules apply when a residence has fuel-burning appliances, a fireplace, an attached garage or is heated by air supplied from a fuel-burning appliance.
Chatham-Kent Fire Chief Chris Case said the changes are meant to prevent tragedies. “Carbon monoxide is called the silent killer for a reason, it’s invisible, odourless, and can be deadly,” he said. “These new rules will save lives by ensuring alarms are installed where they’re needed most. We urge every homeowner, tenant, and property manager to act now and protect their families.”
Residents are encouraged to review their homes for fuel-burning appliances or attached garages, install required alarms before the new year, and test alarms regularly.
CHiRP Home Alarm Check can be booked by visiting ckfire.ca.
More information about the updated legislation is available through the provincial carbon monoxide safety resource.
