The Hawkins-Gignac Foundation is encouraging everyone to learn the dangers of carbon monoxide and how to protect their families.
The Foundation was created after the death of Ontario Provincial Police Constable Laurie Hawkins, who died from CO poisoning along with her husband Richard and two children Cassandra and Jordan, in 2008 at their Woodstock, Ontario home. They did not have a CO alarm.
“Most people are not aware of the dangers of carbon monoxide, so it’s very important for us to educate people so that we can save more lives,” Foundation Executive Director John Gignac says.
Carbon monoxide is a product of incomplete combustion. Gignac says if you burn any fuel in your home, like oil, gas or propane you need a detector.
It’s a silent killer because you can’t see, taste or smell it.
In Ontario and the Yukon, carbon monoxide detectors are mandatory in homes, but Gignac believes this should be law across the country.
“It’s not an expensive addition. They cost anywhere from $35 to $90,” Gignac adds.
The CO awareness week runs from November 1 to 7. To educate yourself on carbon monoxide, you can visit endthesilence.ca or CO Safety Canada
The Foundation recently visited Fire Departments in Charlottetown, PEI, Moncton, New Brunswick and Halifax, Nova Scotia with a donation of 300 carbon monoxide detectors.
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