Carbon monoxide is known as the “silent, invisible killer.”
Today, Enbridge Gas Ontario partnered with the Ramara Fire and Rescue Services to work on bringing fire and carbon monoxide-related deaths down to zero.
The Township of Ramara received 150 combination smoke and carbon monoxide alarms through the Safe Community Project Zero, a public education campaign with the Fire Marshal’s Public Fire Safety Council (FMPFSC) that will provide more than 14,200 alarms to residents in 75 communities across Ontario.
A recent news release stated that over the past 17 years, the program has provided more than 115,000 alarms to Ontario fire departments.
This effort is particularly significant for Ramara, noted Fire Chief Tony Stong. It helps raise awareness and provides more residents with access to the important safety equipment.
“When we get called out and identify a place that's lacking that kind of protection, we're able to support that and ensure that our community is safe and the people have the protection they need,” he said, noting that some socioeconomic factors can prevent people from protecting their homes.
Effective Jan 1, 2026, the Ontario Fire Code will change. New legislation requires the installation of carbon monoxide alarms on every level that contains a fuel-burning appliance, fireplace, or an attached garage.
“Proper maintenance of fuel-burning appliances is the most effective way to prevent carbon monoxide exposure. We’re proud to support our communities by raising awareness and helping Ontarians take simple, proactive steps to stay safe in their homes,” said Andrew Craig, operations supervisor for Enbridge Gas, in a news release.
The combination smoke and carbon monoxide alarms can range from $75 to $150. They typically last 10 years and come with a battery that should last their lifetime.
“I always encourage people to write the date on the back that they've installed batteries, or they installed the unit,” said Craig.
During the 2025 spring ice storm, Ramara Fire and Rescue Services responded to calls where Stong noticed an increased level of carbon monoxide hazards.
Appliances like generators and barbecues were used in unsafe conditions. Further to this point, Stong pointed out that many people in Ramara are seasonal residents. Proper care of equipment that is used less frequently is crucial to safety.
“Pre-plan, have an idea where it should be situated in an emergency,” said Stong.
“Read manuals,” added Craig.
“We’re cottage country, so we start to see people who have closed their cottages or summer homes, they come up to have Christmas here. Remember your smoke and CO alarms are a big part of that,” said Stong, emphasizing that the same rings true for motor homes.
“Make sure that you have these protections in place," he added.