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LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY Ernie Hardeman MPP
For Immediate Release Time to check your Queen’s Park – Today in a statement in the Ontario Legislature, Ernie Hardeman, MPP for Oxford, reminded Ontarians that this is the time of year to check your carbon monoxide detector. “As winter approaches and temperatures drop across the province, families will be turning the heat on,” said Hardeman. “Devices such as gas furnaces, kerosene space heaters and fireplaces are all necessary during the cold months in Ontario, but can pose a danger due to carbon monoxide.” Carbon monoxide is a tasteless, colourless and odourless gas. It is often called the silent killer because it gives no warning to its victims. Almost two years ago a young family, Richard, Laurie, Cassandra and Jordan Hawkins, tragically lost their lives due to carbon monoxide poisoning in their Oxford home. To prevent similar tragedies Hardeman introduced the Hawkins Gignac Act which would require functioning carbon monoxide detectors in all Ontario homes. Hardeman cited a study by New York City’s Mount Sinai School of Medicine which found that the number of severe carbon monoxide poisoning cases significantly declined after the city brought in a law making detectors mandatory. “As you prepare for the winter, I encourage everyone to test their carbon monoxide detector to make sure it is working,” said Hardeman. “If it isn’t, or you don’t have one in your home, I encourage you to get one today. Detectors are widely available, inexpensive, and they save lives.” - 30 -
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