As Canada and especially Toronto prepare for a surge in domestic travel this summer, along with the excitement of the FIFA World Cup, many cottage owners are eager to capitalize on the demand for short-term rentals. However, home expert Scott McGillivray is urging property owners to consider an invisible threat: carbon monoxide.
Safety as a Premium Feature
“As hosts, we want to showcase the absolute best of Canadian hospitality, and that goes beyond aesthetic appeal. It requires paying close attention to the maintenance and safety of your property,” says McGillivray, a nationally recognized authority in vacation and income properties. He emphasizes that safety should be viewed as the ultimate premium feature. “While beautiful aesthetics and stunning photos might get guests through the door, it is the actual quality of the stay that defines their experience. That feeling of security and a worry-free environment is what turns a standard trip into an unforgettable vacation and inspires glowing reviews. In the rental market, peace of mind is one of your best marketing tools.”
Essential To-Do List for Property Owners
To get your space ready for peak season, McGillivray advises focusing on the systems that keep guests safe and comfortable:
- Check Alarms: Ensure both smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are installed, and test them monthly as part of regular maintenance. Research provincial or municipal building codes, as they may affect the number and placement of alarms.
- Inspect Vents: Verify that vents for the dryer, furnace, and other systems are free of debris or overgrown foliage to ensure proper airflow and prevent dangerous gas buildup. Watch for snow blockages in winter.
- Annual Appliance Inspection: Arrange for a licensed professional to inspect all fuel-burning appliances annually. Don’t forget outdoor amenities like barbecues or backup generators, which are common in vacation properties.
“The most common oversight is the ‘set it and forget it’ mindset,” McGillivray notes. “Vacation properties deal with unique stressors made worse by periods of vacancy that can quietly compromise systems and appliances without you realizing it. The greatest danger occurs when fuel-burning systems malfunction and produce carbon monoxide—an invisible, odourless, and tasteless gas that can be fatal when inhaled. That makes your carbon monoxide alarm one of the most critical safety devices in your space.”
Survey Reveals Gaps in Safety
A recent survey by Kidde, a home safety supplier, revealed a significant gap among Canadian cottage owners. Forty-seven per cent of respondents admitted their properties could be at risk due to non-functional, missing, or expired carbon monoxide alarms. Even among those with alarms, nearly a quarter (23 per cent) rarely or never test them. “Testing both your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms at least once a month is a critical part of maintaining these devices and is one of the common missteps of the ‘set it and forget it’ mindset,” McGillivray says.
Tips for Smart Travelers
While travelers may focus on aesthetics when booking, they can take steps to enhance their safety. McGillivray offers these tips:
- Look for safety devices in the amenities section of a property listing.
- Upon arrival, check that smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are present and functioning, and plan an escape route in case of emergency.
- Pack your own battery-powered carbon monoxide alarm. According to Kidde, 67 per cent of short-term renters have never considered packing one. Be sure to remove batteries before traveling and reinsert them at your destination, testing for proper operation.
“Smart travellers become their own safety advocates by seeking out practical tools to guide their preparation,” McGillivray says. “Safety leaders like Kidde provide free online resources, including a comprehensive Travel Safety Checklist. Whether you own, rent, or are visiting a new destination, visiting KiddeCanada.com is a quick, proactive step to ensure you are fully prepared and protected.”
Beware of Unsafe Alarms
McGillivray cautions against buying alarms from online marketplaces, as some may not meet Canadian safety standards. Look for certification symbols such as the Underwriters Laboratories of Canada (ULC) or Canadian Standards Association (CSA) mark on the back of devices. “Trusted brands always ensure their products are rigorously tested to meet these strict requirements,” he says. “With safety standards continually evolving—like recent carbon monoxide alarm updates in Ontario and Saskatchewan—it is vital to stay informed on how to keep your spaces safe. With solid systems in place, your travel season will go smoothly, allowing everyone to relax with peace of mind.”
