Sources of CO

Small amounts of carbon monoxide accumulate in your home through the combustion process, whenever you burn fuel like natural gas, oil, wood and propane.

Common sources include:

• Oil and gas furnaces
• Gas water heaters/boilers
• Wood stoves and fireplaces
• Exhaust fumes from motor vehicles and boats
• Gas range/stoves
• Gas line leaks
• Power generators
• Propane, natural gas or charcoal grills
• Gas powered tools such as snowblowers, power washers, leaf blowers, lawnmowers
• Cigarettes

The more sources of carbon monoxide you have in and around your home, the greater the risk.

Qualified technician

Proper maintenance is key to keeping safe. Have a professional inspect appliances, heating equipment and chimneys at least once a year.

Find a qualified technician in your area:

• TSSA.org
• HRAI.ca

Most of us have at least one potential source of carbon monoxide in our home. When operating properly, the trace amounts of carbon monoxide that are produced get vented safely outside before they can accumulate and aren't cause for concern.

Unfortunately, if your equipment isn't properly installed or maintained, you run the risk of carbon monoxide being released into your home. Get your fuel-burning appliances regularly serviced by a qualified technician.

Accidents happen. Because we can't smell or see it, carbon monoxide can build up in our indoor air without our knowledge. The only way to be sure is to have at least one working carbon monoxide alarm in your home.

That's great

That means that you have a lower risk of being exposed to high levels of carbon monoxide at home. But keep in mind that carbon monoxide can also build up in enclosed areas like tents and workshops, as well as in vehicles like cars, campers and boats. Stay aware of the risks and symptoms.