Carbon Monoxide Awareness
Carbon monoxide (CO) is an invisible, odourless gas that can
cause serious illness or death. Understanding common sources,
recognizing symptoms and maintaining certified alarms are
important parts of household safety.
What the Canadian estimate shows
deaths estimated each year in Canada from carbon monoxide poisoning
hospitalizations estimated each year in Canada
These are estimates attributed to the Government of Canada.
Confirm the original publication and its reporting period
before presenting them as current figures.
CO cannot be detected reliably by sight or smell.
Use appropriate alarms and follow fuel-burning
appliance safety instructions.
Where carbon monoxide can originate
CO can build up when fuel-burning equipment is faulty,
improperly used or inadequately ventilated.
- Furnaces, fireplaces, wood and pellet stoves.
- Fuel-burning water heaters and other appliances.
- Vehicle exhaust entering from an attached garage.
- Generators, barbecues, camping stoves and other fuel-burning equipment used improperly or in poorly ventilated spaces.
Never operate a generator or barbecue indoors,
in a garage or in another enclosed space. Follow
the manufacturer’s outdoor placement and clearance
instructions.
Recognize symptoms and act quickly
Possible early symptoms of carbon monoxide exposure include:
- Headache.
- Shortness of breath.
- Fatigue or unusual weakness.
- Dizziness.
- Nausea and vomiting.
If an alarm sounds or exposure is suspected
- Leave the affected area immediately and get to fresh air.
- Call 9-1-1 or local emergency services from a safe location.
- Seek urgent medical assessment if exposure is suspected.
- Do not re-enter until emergency responders say it is safe.
Do not remain inside to investigate the source or
attempt to find the problem.
Make CO safety part of your home routine
Prevention combines suitable alarms, equipment maintenance
and a household plan that everyone understands.
- Use alarms certified to applicable Canadian standards.
- Install, test, maintain and replace alarms according to applicable codes and manufacturer instructions.
- Arrange qualified maintenance of fuel-burning equipment.
- Use appliances and generators according to official safety guidance and manufacturer instructions.
- Ensure every household member understands the alarm and emergency plan.
Never ignore a CO alarm
Do not assume an alarm is false because no one feels
sick or because you cannot smell anything unusual.