The Lakeshore Fire Department has credited a carbon-monoxide alarm with a happy ending for local residents.
Fire officials say a crew responded to a home in the early morning hours of Sunday, after getting a call about a CO alarm going off. Few details have been released, but when firefighters arrived at the home, they detected dangerously-high concentrations of carbon monoxide.
Fire Chief Don Williamson said the family of five did everything right, and that's what prevented a Christmas time tragedy.
"Without the CO alarm and the quick action taken by residents, this could have been a much sadder story," said Williamson. "This serves as an important reminder, especially around the holidays. CO alarms save lives, and we need to stay vigilant to ensure they are working properly."
Carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless gas that can, and has, killed. According to a 2017 study by the University of the Fraser Valley, CO poisoning claims about 300 Canadian lives a year.
The gas emits from the incomplete burning of fuel such as natural gas, wood, propane, oil, coal, and gasoline. Exposure can cause flu-like symptoms and eventually, unconsciousness or death.
Ontario residents are required to keep CO alarms near sleeping areas of homes that have an attached garage or a fuel-burning appliance. They are also responsible for maintaining these appliances to ensure they are operating properly.
Williamson said Lakeshore Fire is always willing to help residents stay safe from CO poisoning.
"If you or your family members are ever in doubt about the status of your CO alarms, do not hesitate to call 911. Even if it’s a false or faulty alarm, we are happy to respond to make sure everyone has a safe and happy holiday season," said Williamson.
Complete information on CO and how to protect yourself can be found on the Government of Canada's website.
