Law is Changing for Carbon Monoxide Alarms

Important changes to the Ontario Fire Code that will take effect on January 1, 2026, aimed at enhancing safety in residential spaces.

Under the updated regulations, all residential occupancies including homes, apartments and other dwellings that contain a fuel-burning appliance, fireplace, or attached garage must have:

• A carbon monoxide (CO) alarm adjacent to each sleeping area.
• A CO alarm on each storey without a sleeping area (on every floor).

Ontario Regulation 87/25 (O. Reg. 87/25) made under the Fire Protection and Prevention Act, 1997, makes changes to the Ontario Fire Code (O. Reg 213/07) that includes additional carbon monoxide detector requirements.  

The Township of Minden Hills Fire and Building Departments encourage all residents to review their current CO alarm setup and make necessary updates before the new requirements take effect. 

The Minden Hills Fire Department is always available to help you with your CO and smoke alarms. The goal is to ensure that working CO and smoke alarms are in every home across the Township.

With cooler temperatures and our windows closed, CO risks increase. Follow these tips to stay safe:

• Book an annual inspection of all fuel-burning appliances: furnaces, fireplaces, gas stoves, gas dryers and chimneys.
• Keep vents, intakes and exhaust pipes clear of snow and debris.
• Never idle your car in the garage, even with the door open.
• Only use generators and fuel-powered equipment outside, far from windows, doors, or vents.
• Do not use gas stoves, ovens, BBQs, or camping equipment to heat your home unless the device is designed for indoor use.

Visit Fire & Emergency Services for Fire Education and Safety information.