The Halton Hills Fire Department responded to a call this week triggered by a faulty carbon monoxide detector.
Fortunately, everyone was safe. But upon checking the other alarms in the home, one was missing batteries and the other had expired.
“A lot of people are not aware that they expire after seven to 10 years,” said Captain Mark Burger of the Halton Hills Fire Department. “We don’t find a lot of homes without detectors, but it is pretty common to find detectors with a deficiency (either expired or without batteries)."
Jamie Kovacs, executive director of the Fire Marshal’s Public Fire Safety Council, said 40 people died in Ontario last year due to carbon monoxide poisoning.
In an effort to make sure everyone is protected, Enbridge has donated 264 combination smoke/carbon monoxide detectors to the Halton Hills Fire Department. The donation was part of Enbridge’s Safe Community Project Zero, a public education campaign with the Fire Marshal’s Public Fire Safety Council that will provide more than 14,500 alarms to residents in 75 Ontario communities.
Over the past 16 years, the program has donated more than 101,000 alarms across the province.
“The Halton Hills Fire Department would like to extend our gratitude to Enbridge for their generous donation of combination smoke and carbon monoxide alarms,” said Halton Hills Fire Chief Jon Rehill. “These alarms will be distributed to those in our community who require them to keep their families safe.”
Burger said they often respond to calls in the middle of the night. If alarms are missing or not operating properly, and it’s not possible to go buy an alarm, the fire department can provide the residents with one to make sure they are safe.
Brad Martin, GTA West Operations Advisor for Enbridge Gas, said it's important properly maintain all fuel-burning equipment, but noted alarms also play a vital role.
“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.”
