Message from the Minister of Health - National Poison Prevention Week

March 18-24, 2018

Every year, an estimated 80 Canadians die of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, making it one the leading causes of accidental death. This National Poison Prevention Week, our focus is on educating Canadians about the risks of carbon monoxide poisoning, which is too often overlooked.

Carbon monoxide can be present in your home at any time of the year, but particularly in the winter, as most Canadians use furnaces, wood stoves, water heaters and other similar appliances. Handled improperly, these devices can malfunction and release deadly carbon monoxide.

The challenge is that you can't see, smell or taste carbon monoxide - the only way to detect it is with a CO alarm. Similar to a smoke alarm, a CO alarm emits a loud sound to warn you of high carbon monoxide levels, and can be purchased at any hardware store. Make sure to have at least one CO alarm installed in your home, in hallways outside sleeping areas.

If your CO alarm sounds, leave your home immediately. Do not try to search for the source of the carbon monoxide. Once safely outside, call 9-1-1, your fire department, or emergency services. If poisoning is suspected, contact your local Poison Control Centre or call 9-1-1.

I encourage all Canadians to take a moment this week to talk to family and friends about the risks of carbon monoxide and other household poisonings, and make sure everyone in the home knows exactly what to do in an emergency. A few minutes of planning can save lives!

The Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, P.C., M.P.
Minister of Health

Additional Resources:

Prevent carbon monoxide poisoning