Carbon Monoxide: The Silent Killer

TORONTO, ON, November 1, 2023 – Carbon monoxide (CO) continues to be a leading cause of accidental poisoning in Ontario. With approximately 65% of all CO incidents occurring in people’s homes, the Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) has teamed up with fire and emergency services departments across Renfrew County to increase CO awareness in their communities. This critical safety campaign, coinciding with Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week, will run from November 1-14, 2023.

CO is often dubbed the ‘Silent Killer’ because people won’t even know if it is there. CO is an invisible, odourless and highly poisonous gas created during the combustion of carbon fuels like natural gas, wood, gasoline, propane, and others. On average, Ontario homes have roughly 4-6 fuel-burning appliances that produce CO. While these appliances may be safely designed, like many other commonly used items, they must be properly operated and maintained.

“While CO presents serious hazards, residents can essentially eliminate any potential harm by having fuel-burning appliances installed properly and inspected annually through the services of a TSSA-registered fuels contractor and by installing working CO alarms,” says Kelly Hart, Director, Fuels Safety, TSSA

Renfrew County residents will be receiving important CO safety materials in their mailboxes over the next two weeks, along with safety messages delivered through local media and on various social media platforms. As well, all regional fire departments will be providing additional fire and CO safety information as part of their ongoing public education initiatives.

The attached backgrounder provides additional information on carbon monoxide and additional important CO safety information.

Stay one step ahead of CO – Beat the Silent Killer. Take Action. Think Safe.

About TSSA The Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) is one of Ontario’s public safety regulators mandated by the Government of Ontario to enforce provincial safety regulations and enhance public safety. Throughout Ontario, TSSA regulates the safety of amusement devices, boilers and pressure vessels, elevating devices, fuels, operating engineers, and ski lifts. Its range of safety services include public education and consumer information, certification, licensing and registration, engineering design review, inspections, investigations, safety management consultation, compliance support and enforcement and prosecution activities. The organization’s vision is to be a valued advocate and recognized authority in public safety.

For more information or to arrange media availability, please contact:
Alexandra Campbell
Vice President, Communications, Stakeholder Engagement and Customer Service
Technical Standards and Safety Authority
Telephone: 416-734-6227
email:media@tssa.org
For more information on the Technical Standards and Safety Authority, please visit www.tssa.org