Peterborough Fire Services has received more than 300 new combination smoke and carbon monoxide alarms through a province-wide safety initiative supported by Enbridge Gas Ontario.
The alarms are part of Safe Community Project Zero, a public education program run by the Fire Marshal’s Public Fire Safety Council. This year, the initiative is distributing more than 14,200 alarms across 75 Ontario communities. Peterborough’s share includes 336 units.
Enbridge Gas invested $450,000 into the program this year. Over the past 17 years, the company has provided more than 115,000 alarms to fire departments across the province.
Carbon monoxide is a toxic, odourless gas produced by the incomplete combustion of common household fuels. Properly installed and maintained alarms offer an early warning, giving people a chance to escape a fire or CO exposure safely.
“Carbon monoxide alarms play a vital role as a second line of defence against this invisible threat, often called ‘the silent killerʼ,” said Jeff Braithwaite, Operations Supervisor with Enbridge Gas. He stated that maintaining fuel-burning appliances is a key step in preventing CO exposure and added that Enbridge is proud to support efforts that help Ontarians stay safe at home.
Ontario Fire Marshal Jon Pegg said the program helps fire departments reach residents who may be most in need of working alarms while reinforcing the legal requirement to have them installed in all homes.
Peterborough Mayor Jeff Leal said the initiative puts community safety first and gives residents access to equipment proven to save lives.
“Our priority is making sure every resident of Peterborough has the tools they need to stay safe,” added Fire Chief Chris Snetsinger. “Working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms save lives, and programs like Safe Community Project Zero help us reach residents who may otherwise go without this critical protection.”
