Brantford Fire educates residents about new CO alarm requirements

BRANTFORD, ON – The Brantford Fire Department is launching a campaign to educate residents about life saving updates to the Ontario Fire Code. As of January 1, 2026, there will be new requirements for the installation of carbon monoxide (CO) alarms for homeowners and landlords.

“Carbon monoxide is often referred to as the silent killer since it can only be detected by a working carbon monoxide alarm,” says Brantford Fire Chief Todd Binkley. “That’s why it’s incredibly important for all Brantford residents to protect themselves from this invisible threat by following the new CO alarm requirements laid out in the Ontario Fire Code.”

New CO Alarm Requirements as of January 1, 2026

• A CO alarm is now required on every storey of a building, even storeys without bedrooms.
• A CO alarm is required next to every sleeping area (i.e., in the hallway outside sleeping rooms).

The new requirements are for existing detached and semi-detaches houses, townhomes, and cottages, as well as care facilities that have fuel-burning appliances, fireplaces, or an attached garage. Residents are reminded to purchase CO alarms with a recognized certification mark (CSA, ULC, or ETL) and follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions.

Carbon Monoxide is an invisible, odourless and deadly gas produced by carbon-containing fuels such as natural gas, propane, oil, wood and gasoline. Faulty or poorly maintained appliances such as furnaces, water heaters, gas stoves, as well as vehicle exhaust in enclosed spaces, are the most common sources of exposure.

Holiday Fire Safety Open House

To further educate residents about the new carbon monoxide alarm requirements, the Brantford Fire Department is hosting an open house on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Fire Station No. 4, located at 400 Colborne St W. Families are invited to take photos with Santa in front of a fire truck, build DIY gift bags, enjoy free cookies and hot chocolate, all while learning about fire safety.

To learn more about the Ontario Fire Code changes, visit Brantford.ca/KnowTheCode or contact the Brantford Fire Department at 519-752-0540 or fire@brantford.ca. Follow Brantford Fire on social media for the latest tips and information on fire safety.