Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week: Protect yourself from the silent killer

BRACEBRIDGE, ON (October 29, 2025) – From November 1 to 7, the Town of Bracebridge and Bracebridge Fire Department are recognizing Carbon Monoxide (CO) Awareness Week, reminding residents to understand the risks of CO and take steps to keep their homes and families safe.

Each year, communities across Ontario mark CO Awareness Week to promote the use of CO alarms and increase awareness about the dangers of this invisible, odourless, and deadly gas. Beginning January 1, 2026, updates to the Ontario Fire Code will require that dwellings with a fuel-burning appliance, fireplace, or attached garage must be equipped with a CO alarm next to every sleeping area, as well as one on each storey of the home. Up until this point, the Ontario Fire Code only required carbon monoxide alarms to be installed outside all sleeping areas. This new regulation will align with the requirements for smoke alarms outside all sleeping areas and at least one installed per storey of the home.

Exposure to carbon monoxide can cause headaches, nausea, dizziness, breathlessness, loss of consciousness, and even death. Bracebridge Fire encourages everyone to take a few simple precautions that can save lives:

• Test CO alarms monthly and replace the batteries at least once a year;
• Have fuel-burning appliances such as furnaces, gas stoves, and fireplaces inspected annually by a certified technician;
• Keep chimneys and vents clear of debris and obstructions;
• If your CO alarm sounds or anyone experiences symptoms of CO poisoning, go outside immediately and call 9-1-1; and
• Never use barbecues, portable fuel-burning camping equipment, or gas-powered generators indoors or in enclosed spaces.

To learn more about CO safety, visit bracebridge.ca/fire or contact the Bracebridge Fire Department to speak with someone from the Fire Prevention division.

Quotes

“Community safety starts with you. As we recognize Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week, I encourage everyone to test their CO alarms, review their home safety plans, and make sure their loved ones know what to do in case of an emergency. Taking these simple steps can truly save lives.”
- Rick Maloney, Mayor, Town of Bracebridge

“Carbon monoxide is called the silent killer for a reason; it gives no warning. A working CO alarm is the only way to detect this deadly gas before it’s too late. Don’t take chances: check your alarms today, and make sure your family knows they’re protected.”
- Kevin Plested, 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