In an effort to prevent any fire or carbon monoxide (CO)-related deaths in South Bruce Peninsula, nearly 150 combination smoke and CO alarms are being handed out.
The region's volunteer fire service has received 144 of the life-saving devices from Enbridge Gas through Safe Community Project Zero, a public education campaign with the Fire Marshal’s Public Fire Safety Council. Through the campaign more than 14,500 of the alarms will be distributed to low-income residents in 75 communities.
“The best way to reduce potential exposure to carbon monoxide is to properly maintain fuel-burning equipment,” said Desirée Swance, Enbridge's advisor of municipal and stakeholder affairs community engagement. “These alarms are a critical second line of defence against carbon monoxide poisoning, known as ‘the silent killer’. We’re proud to support our communities, and raise awareness and help Ontarians implement these protection strategies.”
When installed properly, the combination smoke and carbon monoxide alarms provide an early warning of fire or CO in the air, giving residents time to get out of their home safely.
“The fire department is pleased to announce a local partnership with the Bruce County Paramedic Service’s Community Outreach Program and the Home and Community Support Service’s Grey-Bruce Meals on Wheels program to be the primary recipients for these alarms, along with their installation if required,” said Tim Wilson, South Bruce Peninsula's manager of emergency services and fire chief. “The fire department will be contacting other local community programs to enhance this program’s outreach.”
Last year, 40 people in Ontario died from CO poisoning. The deadly gas is odourless and tasteless which makes it hard to detect without a CO alarm. The alarms became mandatory in Ontario in 2014. Homeowners are required to install them on all floors and outside of sleeping areas.