Practice Prevention

To prevent carbon monoxide poising, it is important to ensure your family is informed of the symptoms and causes of CO poisoning. As well, be sure to take all the precautions available to minimize the production of CO any enclosed space.

Find out more about what you can do to ensure your appliances are properly installed, adjusted, vented and maintained: Use and Maintain Appliances as Directed

Carbon Monoxide Detectors

When you buy a CO detector, make sure that it is certified by the Canadian Standard Association (CSA) to Canadian standards. Products with CSA 6.19-01 on the packaging have been tested to the Residential Carbon Monoxide Alarming Devices standard published in March 2001. The package will also show a replacement date. The new standard includes Times-of -Manufacture and In-Service reliability testing.

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation, proper use and maintenance. CO detectors are usually installed adjacent to sleeping areas, and on every level of your home. Install detectors in your R.V. or camper.

While carbon monoxide detectors may provide an extra measure of warning, they should never be relied upon as a substitute for regular inspection and maintenance of natural gas, propane, kerosene, oil or wood burning appliances, venting and chimneys. A CO detector should not be used as a substitute for a smoke detector.

If your CO detector is battery operated, replace the batteries annually.