(Barrie, ON) – Carbon Monoxide (CO) Awareness Week is November 1 to 7, 2026, and Barrie Fire and Emergency Service is taking the opportunity to remind residents about carbon monoxide alarm requirements.
Starting January 1, 2026, changes to the Ontario Fire Code required additional carbon monoxide alarms in homes with fuel-burning appliances, fireplaces, or attached garages. These updates were made across the province to improve household safety and prevent incidents caused by carbon monoxide exposure.
Reminder: the regulations require:
- A carbon monoxide alarm adjacent to every sleeping area in your home; and
- A carbon monoxide alarm on every storey that does not contain a sleeping area (for example, a main floor or basement).
The requirements apply to all residential occupancies, including existing homes. Even if your home already has a CO alarm, you may need to add more to comply with the updated Fire Code.
“Carbon monoxide is a poisonous gas that cannot be seen, smelled or tasted, making working CO alarms essential in every home,” says Barrie Fire Chief Kevin White. “The updated regulations are designed to strengthen safety and help prevent tragedy. Residents should review the requirements to ensure they are compliant with these important public safety measures.”
A CO alarm will alert you when dangerous levels of CO are present in your home. A working alarm will ring loudly, giving you and your family the early warning you need to get out. CO alarms can warn you about sudden failures of fuel-burning appliances and are a good first line of defence against CO exposure. If you or anyone else in your home experiences symptoms of CO poisoning, or your CO alarm sounds, leave the home immediately and call 9-1-1.
What You Can Do Now:
- Check your alarms. Make sure you have CO alarms installed in the required areas.
- Maintain your alarms. Test alarms regularly and replace them when they expire (approximately every 5–10 years).
- Inspect appliances annually. Have all fuel-burning appliances serviced by a qualified technician and ensure vents and exhausts are clear of snow, debris, or obstructions.
- Combination Smoke/CO Alarms on each level of your home may be used to meet the requirements.
For more information on carbon monoxide alarms, visit barrie.ca/FireSafetyEquipment.
