Carbon monoxide dangers highlighted as cold weather approaches

With colder weather arriving, the Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) is warning Ontario residents about the dangers of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. CO is a colorless, odorless gas produced by fuel-burning appliances like furnaces and fireplaces. The “silent killer” is responsible for numerous accidental poisonings in the province.

TSSA urges homeowners to have their fuel-burning appliances inspected annually by a registered contractor and to install certified CO alarms.

“During the cold weather months there’s naturally an increased use of furnaces and fireplaces,” said Kelly Hart, TSSA’s director of fuels safety. “Even though these fuel-burning appliances may be safely designed, they can emit deadly levels of CO gas if not properly installed, inspected and maintained regularly.”