As the May long weekend approaches, many Canadians are preparing to enjoy seasonal activities. However, safety experts are reminding everyone to be aware of hidden poisoning risks in and around the home. The Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) and the Ontario Poison Centre (OPC) have partnered to raise awareness about these dangers, emphasizing that many poisonings are preventable.
Carbon Monoxide Safety
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a household poison that can infiltrate popular summertime activities such as cottaging, camping, barbecuing, or using an RV. To stay safe, ensure that all fuel-burning appliances are inspected annually by a TSSA-registered fuels contractor. Install working, certified CO alarms and test them regularly, replacing them according to the manufacturer's instructions. Never use fuel-burning equipment designed for outdoor use—such as generators, portable heaters, BBQs, and camping stoves—indoors. Keep external exhaust vents, including those at cottages or in trailers and RVs, free of debris or blockages. If you suspect CO poisoning, get outdoors immediately and call 911. For more information, visit COsafety.ca.
Other Poisons to Watch For
Whether indoors or out, be mindful of other potential poisoning hazards. Keep all cleaning products in their original containers and never transfer them to containers used for drinking, like water bottles or pop cans. Store harmful products and medications locked up tight and out of sight in a cupboard or container. Do not leave weed killers, pesticides, insecticides, fertilizers, or other lawn and garden products unattended. Know the names of all plants and trees inside and outside your home. When hiking or visiting areas where rattlesnakes live, be prepared: if you hear a rattle, move away from the sound and do not try to touch the snake. If you or someone nearby experiences suspected poisoning, call the OPC toll-free at 1-800-268-9017 or 911 immediately. For additional poison prevention information, visit ontariopoisoncentre.ca.
About TSSA
The Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) administers provincial safety regulations and enhances public safety throughout Ontario. TSSA regulates the safety of amusement devices, boilers and pressure vessels, elevating devices, fuels, operating engineers, and ski lifts. Its range of safety services includes public education, authorization, engineering design review, inspections, investigations, compliance support, enforcement, and prosecution activities. For more information, visit www.tssa.org.
