Saskatchewan is set to mandate the installation of carbon monoxide alarms in all residential units within multi-unit buildings across the province. This initiative, known as “Henry’s Law,” is named after 11-year-old Henry Losco, who tragically passed away due to carbon monoxide poisoning in his family’s dwelling within a Regina apartment complex last December.
Henry’s parents, Marina Hills and Sergio Losco, stood alongside Government Relations Minister Eric Schmalz and NDP MLAs Meara Conway and Erika Ritchie during the announcement of these regulatory updates. Hills expressed that their primary goal was to prevent further carbon monoxide-related fatalities among children and families, emphasizing that “Henry’s Law” aims to ensure the safety of residents in their homes.
Effective November 1, 2026, the new regulation will mandate the presence of a CO alarm in all residential suites, irrespective of their location within the building, for both new constructions and existing properties.
During a meeting with Premier Scott Moe prior to the public address, Hills and Losco noted the remarkable speed at which these changes were enacted, highlighting the collaborative effort between government parties for the betterment of Saskatchewan. Schmalz emphasized that the safety of the province’s residents transcends political boundaries, as demonstrated by the unified support symbolized by the “#JusticeforHenryLosco” message displayed on green shirts.
Furthermore, Schmalz affirmed that Saskatchewan’s regulations will be enhanced beyond national building codes, positioning the province as a trailblazer in Canada. The government previously updated building standards in 2022, mandating carbon monoxide and smoke detectors in all residential buildings by July 1 of that year. The recent amendments signify a significant shift from previous regulations, where smoke alarms were only required in buildings constructed after 1988 and CO alarms in structures built after 2009.
In response to inquiries regarding the delay in implementing these changes sooner, Schmalz emphasized the importance of learning from past incidents, such as Henry’s tragic death, to prevent similar tragedies in the future. Consultations with Rental Housing Saskatchewan and the support from landlords’ organizations signify broad industry backing for the new requirements, aimed at enhancing resident safety within multi-unit buildings.