The North Perth Fire Department made a special announcement on Thursday regarding Project Zero.
That project is a joint effort by Enbridge Gas Ontario and the Fire Marshal’s Public Fire Safety Council to provide new smoke and carbon monoxide alarms to those who otherise can't afford them through local fire stations.
North Perth Fire Chief Janny Pape says laws around alarms are changing soon and having these alarms to hand out to those who need assistance and making people aware is critical in preventing fire and carbon monoxide deaths.
"So this year we are the grateful recipients of 192 combination smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. Legislation changes on January 1, 2026, requiring carbon monoxide alarms in addition to smoke alarms on every level of a home or building. So this is very exciting that we'll be able to hand these out for free in our community," Chief Pape shared.
Chief Pape says when it comes to carbon monoxide, it's referred to as the "silent killer" because it's odourless and tasteless, but people need to be aware of how dangerous it can be.
"What presents as carbon monoxide poisoning is you would have flu-like symptoms, and so, many times, when a carbon monoxide poisoning happens, it's in the evening. So you fall asleep, because of the carbon monoxide in the home, and you don't wake up. So it's very important that you have early detection, to keep your family safe," the Chief added.
Having programs like Project Zero to help families get these life-saving alarms is a very welcome thing Chief Pape noted, especially for fire fighters, but also for families that might have cost stand in the way of getting the equipment.
"We understand that alarms are not inexpensive, but they are your family's best protection for early detection to get you out when there's an emergency in your home. If anyone is in need, they can call the fire department at any time and we can certainly provide them with devices," she shared.
The alarms will also be handed out at events that the fire department attends for those who couldn't otherwise afford the alarms.
Chief Pape added that people may not realize that not having working smoke alarms, and soon carbon monoxide alarms, is a ticketable offence. She says it's a balance for the fire department to make everyone aware of the need for the alarms and help get them out there, but it is a property owner or landlord's responsibility to have them on every level of the home or building in question.
For more information, visit https://www.northperth.ca/home-property-roads/emergency-services-and-safety/fire-department/
