Ontario Fire Code Expands Carbon Monoxide Alarm Requirements

The Town of The Blue Mountains Fire Department would like to advise residents of upcoming changes to the Ontario Fire Code. As of January 1, 2026, the Ontario Fire Code is introducing new requirements for carbon monoxide alarms in residential properties.

• In homes with a fuel-burning appliance, fireplace, or an attached garage, alarms will now be required on every storey, not just near sleeping areas.
• In homes where forced air heat comes from a fuel burning appliance located outside the home, alarms will now be required on every storey.
• In multi-unit residential buildings, alarms must be installed in all suites meeting certain conditions, service rooms, and, in some cases, public corridors.
• In care facilities and certain group homes, alarms will be required in suites and common areas. 

Carbon monoxide is known as the silent killer due to its nature – it is odourless, colourless and tasteless. Exposure can cause serious health issues and even death, and it is the leading cause of accidental poisonings in Ontario. It is undetectable without a carbon monoxide alarm, making working alarms crucial for saving lives. 

Carbon monoxide is produced when you burn any type of fuel, and it can be found both indoors and outdoors. It is lighter than air and can move freely throughout indoor spaces. Carbon monoxide poisoning symptoms are similar to symptoms for many other illnesses and may go unnoticed or undetected without carbon monoxide alarms. 

Carbon monoxide alarms are a life-saving early warning system against carbon monoxide. Working carbon monoxide alarms alert you to the presence of potentially dangerous levels of carbon monoxide in your home and can prevent poisoning or even death. Fuel sources where carbon monoxide alarms are required include natural gas, propane, fuel oil, wood or wood products. 

The Blue Mountains Fire Department urges all residents to follow the new Fire Code regulations and install additional carbon monoxide alarms where required. 

For more information, visit: Carbon Monoxide Safety | Province of Ontario