Working smoke and CO alarms save lives. A working smoke alarm can provide the early warning needed to escape a fire safely, while a carbon monoxide (CO) alarm can alert you to the presence of this deadly gas before it becomes dangerous.
As part of Fire Prevention Week, Middlesex Centre Fire Services is offering free combination smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms to Middlesex Centre residents, thanks to a generous donation from Enbridge Gas. One alarm is available per household while supplies last. See the link below to request an alarm.
Ontario law requires working smoke alarms on every storey of a home and outside all sleeping areas. Homes with fuel-burning appliances, fireplaces, attached garages, or certain shared heating systems must also have carbon monoxide alarms, with updated requirements introduced in 2026 to provide even greater protection.
Carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless gas that cannot be seen, smelled, or tasted. The only way to detect it is with a working CO alarm.
- Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarm FAQs
- What are combo units?
Combo units are combination alarms that detect more than one hazard in a single device. The most common combo unit is a smoke alarm and CO alarm in one housing.
- Why use a combo unit?
Combo units are popular because they:
- Save space (one device instead of two)
- Reduce installation time
- Cost less than buying separate alarms
- Provide simpler maintenance (fewer devices to manage)
- How often do smoke, CO and combo units need to be replaced?
Most alarms need to be replaced every 7–10 years, depending on the manufacturer.
Typical guidelines:
- Smoke sensor: about 10 years
- CO sensor: about 5–10 years
With a combo unit, you need to replace the entire combo unit when either sensor reaches end-of-life.
Always:
- Test your alarms monthly and replace the batteries immediately when required.
- Check the manufacture date on the back.
- Read and follow the manufacturer’s replacement instructions.
- Where can I purchase carbon monoxide, smoke or combo alarm units?
All these units can be purchased at your local hardware store.
Smoke alarms and CO alarms can be hardwired, battery-operated, or plug-in. Many models combine smoke and CO detection in one unit (“combo unit”).
When purchasing an alarm, look for one that meets Canadian safety standards. Check for logos from recognized agencies like:
- CSA (Canadian Standards Association)
- ULC (Underwriters Laboratories of Canada)
- ETL (Electrical Testing Laboratories)
For information on what to look for when purchasing smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, see the Certification Marks listed on the Government of Canada's Fire Safety page.
Middlesex Centre residents can request a free combo alarm. Please see below for details.
- Maintenance Tips
All smoke, CO and combo alarms need simple maintenance to make sure they are working correctly.
- Test alarms every month using the test button.
- Replace batteries every year (or as needed).
- Replace alarms according to the manufacturer’s instructions and expiry date.
If your alarm chirps, it could mean a low battery or that the alarm has reached its end of life. Make sure you check the manufacturer’s guide to know the difference between a low-battery warning, end-of-life signal, and an emergency alarm.
- What should I do if my alarm sounds?
If your smoke, CO, or combination alarms sounds, you should leave your home immediately, get fresh air, and call 911 from outside.
Make sure you have practiced your household escape plan. It is a good idea to have a meeting place so that everyone knows where to meet once outside.
- Request a Combination CO/Smoke Alarm
Thanks to a generous donation from Enbridge Gas, Middlesex Centre Fire Services is offering CO/Smoke Alarms for Middlesex Centre residents (one per household, as supply lasts). Please complete our online form to request one today.
- For More Information
Visit:
- Middlesex Centre Fire Services - Fire Prevention & Safety
- Government of Ontario - Fire Safety at Home
- Government of Ontario - Carbon Monoxide Safety
- Government of Canada - Fire Safety in your Home
Call or Email: