Project Zero Donation Strengthens Fire Safety Efforts in The County

Date: October 24, 2023

Prince Edward County Fire & Rescue has received a significant boost to its life-saving efforts with the delivery of 246 combination smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, which will be distributed to residents most in need throughout the community.

The alarms were presented by Enbridge Gas as part of Safe Community Project Zero, a province-wide public education and fire-prevention initiative delivered in partnership with the Office of the Ontario Fire Marshal’s Public Fire Safety Council. The program has supplied more than 10,000 alarms to 50 municipalities across Ontario, all with the shared objective of reducing fire- and carbon monoxide-related deaths to zero.

In 2023, Enbridge Gas committed $315,000 to support Project Zero. Since the program began 15 years ago, over 86,000 smoke and carbon monoxide alarms have been distributed to fire departments across the province.

Fire Chief Chad Brown expressed appreciation for the contribution, noting that the donation reinforces the department’s safety message that working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are essential to saving lives.

These alarms provide early warning during a house fire or carbon monoxide incident, allowing occupants the time needed to escape safely. Carbon monoxide, often referred to as the “silent killer,” is a colourless, odourless, and toxic gas produced by the incomplete combustion of common fuels.

Mike Cooney, Eastern Region Supervisor of Operations for Enbridge Gas, emphasized that regular maintenance of fuel-burning appliances is the most effective way to reduce the risk of carbon monoxide exposure, while alarms serve as a critical second layer of protection for households.

The Ontario Fire Marshal’s Office continues to stress the importance of properly functioning smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. Under Ontario regulations, homes must have a carbon monoxide alarm if they contain fuel-burning appliances or an attached garage.