Hawkins-Gignac Foundation donates over 60 carbon monoxide detectors to St. Marys Fire Department

Firefighter Brandon Dundas, Fire Chief Phil West, executive director of the Hawkins-Gignac Foundation, John Gignac, and chief fire prevention officer Chris St. Clair show the CO detectors that were donated by the foundation to get the message out about the importance of having a working CO alarm in the home.

By Wendy Lamond

A special presentation was held at the St. Marys Fire Department on Tuesday, March 10, that could end up saving local lives.

John Gignac, executive director of the Hawkins-Gignac Foundation met with local Fire Chief Phil West, chief fire prevention officer Chris St. Clair and firefighter Brandon Dundas to donate more than 60 carbon monoxide (CO) detectors to the St. Marys Fire Department that will be given to households that don’t currently have one.

“This generous donation will help ensure more St. Marys residents are protected from the dangers of carbon monoxide,” West said.

The Hawkins-Gignac Foundation was founded in 2010 after Gignac’s niece, Laurie Hawkins, and her whole family succumbed to carbon monoxide poisoning from a blocked vent on a gas fireplace. Gignac, who was a firefighter for 34 years, wanted to find a way to share the importance of having a working CO detector in all homes.

The odourless gas is referred to as the silent killer. It is not only odourless but also colourless and tasteless, making it very hard to detect. The foundation promotes public education on the importance of CO detection.

Gignac has been travelling all over the country sharing this message and has donated over 30,000 CO detectors to over 350 fire departments. His passion and dedication to this cause have resulted in some positive results over the years. He says if he can save lives with his message, then he is helping and making a difference.

In 2013, the Hawkins Gignac Act was passed, making CO alarms mandatory in all Ontario homes. More recently, CO detectors have been made a requirement adjacent to each sleeping area and on every level of the home.

The foundation hosts ball tournaments, barbecues and fundraisers including the sale colouring books featuring Rickey, the CO Safety Ranger. The money raised goes towards purchasing the CO detectors that will be distributed to those who need one.

Having a working CO alarm is a very important step homeowners can take to keep their families safe. CO gets released in the air by everyday fuel-burning appliances like gas ranges, fireplaces, water heaters and gas furnaces.

Visit endthesilence.ca to learn more about carbon monoxide and how to donate to the Hawkins-Gignac Foundation.