Carbon monoxide awareness week begins November 1

BRACEBRIDGE, ON (October 28, 2024) – From November 1 to 7, Bracebridge Fire and the Town of Bracebridge recognize Carbon Monoxide (CO) Awareness Week and remind the community to recognize the health risks and dangers CO poses.

Each year, communities across Ontario recognize CO Awareness Week to promote the use of CO alarms and to educate Ontarians about CO including how to prevent exposure, the health hazards of CO poisoning, and what to do in the event of a leak. By law, in Ontario, CO alarms are required to be installed outside all sleeping areas of homes with a fuel-burning appliance, fireplace, or attached garage.

Exposure to CO, known as the silent killer, can cause headaches, nausea, dizziness, breathlessness, collapse, loss of consciousness, and death. Take the following steps to protect yourself and loved ones from carbon monoxide:

• Test CO alarms every month and change the batteries at least once a year;
• Have fuel-burning appliances, such as a furnace, gas stove, and fireplace, inspected annually by a trained, certified technician to check for a leak at the source;
• Ensure all chimneys and vents are clean and clear of obstructions;
• If a CO alarm activates or you suspect someone in your home has symptoms of CO poisoning, immediately go outside and call 9-1-1; and
• Never use a barbecue, portable fuel-burning camping equipment, or gas-powered generators indoors.

To learn, visit bracebridge.ca/fireprevention.


Quotes

“The Town of Bracebridge is committed to the health and wellness of the community. During CO Awareness Week, take the time to test and check the alarms in your home. The importance of having a carbon monoxide alarm installed outside all sleeping areas plays a vital role in preventing deaths and protecting yourself and loved ones.”
- Rick Maloney, Mayor, Town of Bracebridge

“Having a working CO alarm in your home is the surest way to know you and your family are protected from exposure. CO is a colourless, odourless, and tasteless gas making it impossible to detect without a working CO alarm. Do your part to stay safe.”
- Scott Granahan, Director of Emergency Services / Fire Chief, Bracebridge Fire Department

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About Bracebridge – The Town of Bracebridge is located in the Heart of Muskoka, the epitome of Canada’s Cottage Country.  With a population in excess of 17,000 permanent residents that doubles during the summer months, the community has a diversified economy that is highlighted by strong construction, hospitality and professional sectors. Bracebridge is the steward of the cottage country brand and is teaching the world the power of living the Muskoka lifestyle in its spirit, the arts, food, home and recreation. The Town is positioned on the 45th parallel, halfway between the Equator and the North Pole, and is recognized as Santa’s summer home.




MEDIA CONTACT

Town of Bracebridge
media@bracebridge.ca