Pickering Fire Services urges public to prepare for new carbon monoxide alarm requirements

Pickering, ON, December 15, 2025 – Pickering Fire Services is advising the public of new Ontario Fire Code requirements coming into effect on January 1st, 2026 – aimed at enhancing protection against carbon monoxide (CO).

CO, often called the ‘silent killer’, is a colourless, odourless, and tasteless gas that can be lethal and is undetectable without a working CO alarm.

New CO Alarm Requirements (Beginning January 1st, 2026):

• In existing homes, alarms will be mandatory on every storey, moving beyond the current requirement of only being near sleeping areas.
• In multi-unit residential buildings, CO alarms will be required in all applicable suites, service rooms, and in specific cases, public corridors.
• In residential care homes and specific group homes, CO alarms must be installed in all suites and common areas.

“Most carbon monoxide-related injuries and fatalities happen in the home,” said Chief Boyd. “As colder weather settles in and we rely more on fuel-burning appliances, the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning increases. It’s essential that community members are aware of the new Ontario Fire Code requirements and take the necessary steps to properly equip and protect their homes.”

CO Alarm Types & Responsibilities:

• CO alarms can be hard-wired, battery-operated, or plug-in devices.
• Home/building owners are responsible for complying with the CO alarm requirements.
• In rentals, landlords are responsible for installing and maintaining CO alarms in units. Landlords should also provide the tenant with a copy of the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Tenants are responsible for notifying the landlord of any issues with a CO alarm in their unit.

Preventing CO Poisoning:

• Test CO alarms monthly and replace CO alarms at the end of their service life (as listed by the manufacturer).
• Ensure fuel-burning appliances are cleaned and inspected by professionals every year before extreme cold weather begins.
• Ensure outside vents for the dryer, furnace, stove, fireplace, and other fuel-burning appliances are always clear of snow and debris.
• Only use gas and charcoal barbecues outside, away from all doors, windows, vents, and other building openings. Never use barbecues inside garages, even if the garage door is open.
• Only use portable fuel-burning generators outdoors in well-ventilated areas, away from doors, windows, vents, and other building openings.
• Ensure all portable fuel-burning heaters are vented properly, according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Never use a stove or oven to heat the home.
• Open the flue before using a fireplace for adequate ventilation.
• Never run a vehicle, fuelled engine, or motor inside a garage.

Recognizing CO Poisoning:

Symptoms of CO poisoning can include headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, chest pain, seizures, disorientation, and loss of consciousness. CO poisoning is a medical emergency – if symptoms occur, move immediately to fresh air and call 911.

Visit LetsTalkPickering.ca/PickeringFire to learn more or ask fire-related questions.