How Saskatoon is built
- Before 1961 19%
- 1961–1990 44%
- 1991–2000 7%
- 2001 or later 30%
The rule in Saskatchewan
Saskatchewan requires CO alarms in all residential buildings regardless of age (enforced since July 1, 2022), and from November 1, 2026, 'Henry's Law' requires one in every residential suite, including secondary suites.
CO sources in Saskatoon homes
In the Saskatoon area, the main heating energy is natural gas for 78% of households (Statistics Canada, 2023). Any fuel-burning appliance, fireplace or attached garage is a potential CO source.
Single-detached houses make up 54% of Saskatoon's households; many have an attached garage, another reason to put an alarm near the door into the house.
What a CO check involves
- Alarms next to sleeping areas and on every storey, tested monthly and replaced by their end-of-life date (usually 7 to 10 years).
- Annual service of fuel-burning appliances by a licensed technician.
- A combustion spillage test during an energy evaluation, which catches a venting problem before it produces CO.
Our carbon monoxide guide · Combustion safety testing in Saskatoon
Carbon monoxide testing in Saskatoon: common questions
Are carbon monoxide alarms mandatory in Saskatoon?
Saskatchewan requires CO alarms in all residential buildings regardless of age (enforced since July 1, 2022), and from November 1, 2026, 'Henry's Law' requires one in every residential suite, including secondary suites.
Where should CO alarms go?
Outside every sleeping area and on every storey, following the manufacturer's instructions. Some rules also call for one near a fuel-burning appliance or the door from an attached garage.
How long do CO alarms last?
Most have an end-of-life date of 7 to 10 years printed on the unit; replace them by then even if they still beep when tested.