Silent Killer Alert: CO Detector Saves Family

Six and a half years ago, a family in North Bay, Ontario, was saved from carbon monoxide poisoning by a timely alarm. The incident, which occurred around 2 a.m. on March 1, 2020, prompted Jessie Embrack to evacuate her family and dog after their detector sounded.

Investigating crews discovered a cracked furnace was emitting dangerously high levels of carbon monoxide, exceeding 170 parts per million and rising. This event underscores the critical importance of carbon monoxide detectors, a colorless, odorless, and deadly gas produced by incomplete fuel combustion.

In observance of Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week, Ontario fire departments, which responded to an average of 4,000 CO-related calls annually between 2020 and 2024, are urging homeowners to take preventive measures. As of January 1 of this year, new fire code laws require a working carbon monoxide alarm on each level of homes that contain a fuel-burning appliance, fireplace, attached garage, or are heated by a forced-air system from an external fuel-burning appliance.

Fire officials also recommend checking and replacing batteries in smoke and CO alarms during the upcoming time change. Regular annual inspections of fuel-burning appliances, chimneys, and vents, along with ensuring appliance vents are clear, are also crucial for safety. The Embrack family emphasizes the life-saving impact of having these alarms installed.