Mississauga Fire Urges Residents to Prioritize Safety as Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week Begins

Mississauga – As Ontario marks Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week from November 1 to 7, Mississauga Fire and Emergency Services (MFES) is emphasizing the importance of preventing carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning through proper alarm installation and household safety checks.

Carbon monoxide, often referred to as the “silent killer,” is a colourless, odourless, and tasteless gas that can be fatal to both humans and pets. Created by the incomplete burning of fossil fuels, CO often originates from appliances such as gas stoves, furnaces, fireplaces, and vehicles in attached garages. Exposure can result in symptoms resembling the flu, such as headaches, dizziness, chest pain, and confusion, which may escalate quickly to more serious health issues if not addressed.

In Ontario, homes with fuel-burning appliances or attached garages must, by law, have CO alarms installed outside all sleeping areas. MFES recommends that, in addition to placing alarms near bedrooms, residents consider installing them on each level of their home to ensure thorough protection. Regular maintenance, such as monthly alarm testing and replacing units every ten years, is also advised. Annual inspections of fuel-burning appliances and home ventilation systems can further reduce the risk of CO buildup.

MFES is hosting a series of public information sessions across Mississauga to educate residents on CO safety, including tips on alarm usage and recognizing the signs of CO exposure. The schedule for these sessions is as follows:

• Monday, November 4 – Clarkson Library, 7:30 – 8:30 p.m.
• Tuesday, November 5 – Burnhamthorpe Community Centre, 7 – 8 p.m.
• Wednesday, November 6 – Malton Community Centre, 7 – 8 p.m.
• Thursday, November 7 – Meadowvale 4 Rinks, 7 – 8 p.m.

Through these sessions, attendees can speak directly with MFES Public Education Officers to gain personalized advice on maintaining CO alarms and performing regular household checks. MFES has also released a new YouTube video highlighting CO safety practices and encouraging families to take preventative measures.

This November, MFES encourages all Mississauga residents to be vigilant about CO safety, noting that proactive steps can save lives.

SOURCE City of Mississauga