Fire Safety and Public Education

The Huron East Fire Department is committed to empowering our community with the knowledge and tools to prevent emergencies, stay safe, and build a resilient future through education, awareness, and proactive fire safety initiatives.

On this page:

1. Smoke alarms
2. Carbon monoxide
3. Clearing hydrants of snow

Smoke alarms

In Ontario, every home must have a working smoke alarm on every storey and outside all sleeping areas, it's the law.

Smoke alarm requirements in Ontario

Homeowners: You are responsible for installing and maintaining smoke alarms on every level of your home, including outside all sleeping areas.

Landlords: You must ensure that your rental properties meet smoke alarm requirements at all times.

Tenants: If your unit lacks the required smoke alarms, notify your landlord immediately. Do not remove batteries or tamper with any smoke alarm. This is illegal.

Penalties for non-compliance: Failure to follow the Ontario Fire Code may result in a $360 ticket or a fine of up to $50,000 for individuals and $100,000 for corporations.

Resources

For more information on smoke alarms, visit the following websites:

Ontario Fire Marshal
National Fire Protection Association
Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs

Carbon monoxide

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that can be extremely dangerous, even deadly, when inhaled in high concentrations. It is often referred to as the "silent killer" because it can cause poisoning without any obvious warning signs. Carbon monoxide is produced by the incomplete combustion of fuels, such as gas, oil, coal, and wood, making it a concern in homes with appliances like stoves, furnaces, water heaters, and fireplaces. To prevent CO poisoning, it is a legal requirement to install carbon monoxide alarms in residential buildings outside sleeping quarters and ensure proper ventilation.

Carbon monoxide prevention and safety tips

The first line of defense against carbon monoxide poisoning is a reliable CO alarm. These devices are similar to smoke detectors, but they are specifically designed to detect the presence of carbon monoxide in the air. When CO levels in the home reach dangerous levels, the alarm will emit a loud sound to alert residents, allowing them to evacuate and seek fresh air before serious health effects occur.

Carbon monoxide alarms work by sensing the amount of carbon monoxide in the air. Modern alarms often have a built-in digital display showing real-time CO levels, which can help individuals assess the severity of the situation. CO alarms should be installed on every floor of the home, especially near sleeping areas, to ensure that everyone can hear the alarm in the event of a CO buildup.

It is important to test CO alarms monthly to ensure they are functioning properly, and the batteries should be replaced at least once a year. If an alarm goes off, it is vital to immediately vacate the premises and call emergency services to assess the situation. Additionally, if the CO alarm is over 5-7 years old, it is recommended to replace it, as the sensors may become less effective over time.

Keeping Vents Clear: A Key to Preventing Carbon Monoxide Build-up

A critical factor in preventing dangerous CO levels in the home is proper ventilation. Appliances that burn fuel, such as gas stoves, water heaters, and heating systems, require ventilation to safely release the carbon monoxide they produce. Keeping these vents clear is essential to ensure that CO does not build up inside the home.

Blocked or obstructed vents can prevent exhaust gases from properly leaving the home, allowing carbon monoxide to accumulate indoors. Common causes of vent blockages include dirt, debris, leaves, snow buildup, and even bird nests. Homeowners should inspect vents regularly, especially during the colder months, when snow and ice are more likely to cause blockages. If vents become clogged, the risk of CO poisoning increases, as the gas may seep back into the living space.

It is also important to ensure that chimneys and flues are clean and functioning properly. Regular maintenance, including annual inspections by a professional, can help identify potential hazards such as cracks, leaks, or obstructions that could lead to dangerous carbon monoxide exposure. Ensuring that all fuel-burning appliances are properly vented and maintained can significantly reduce the risk of CO buildup.

Exposure to carbon monoxide

Exposure may cause:

• headaches
• fatigue
• shortness of breath
• flu-like symptoms
• impaired motor functions (difficulty walking or problems with balance)
• dizziness
• chest pain
• poor vision
• difficulty thinking
• convulsions
• coma
• death

Resources

Carbon Monoxide Alarm Regulations
Fire Safety and Public Education
Farm Fire Prevention
NFPA Fire Safety

Clearing fire hydrants of snow

The Municipality encourages property owners and residents to voluntarily assist by keeping fire hydrants near their homes or businesses clear of snow. While this is not a requirement, your help ensures that fire and emergency services can access hydrants quickly during an emergency, when every second counts.