Ontarians to Take Action and Test Smoke
Alarms
BRAMPTON, ON, Sept. 28,
2024 /CNW/ - The Office of the Fire Marshal (OFM) is
once again encouraging everyone in Ontario to protect their families from fire
with a working smoke alarm.
In 2023, Ontario suffered 123
fire deaths as a result of 111 fatal fires. Although the number of
fire deaths is lower than the previous year, the number of fatal
fires has increased. The trend in elevated fire deaths and fatal
fires is something that the OFM and fire departments across
Ontario continue to be concerned
about.
By law, a working smoke alarm must be installed on every storey
and outside all sleeping areas in every home in Ontario.
Ontario's second "Test Your
Smoke Alarm Day" takes place September
28 and the OFM wants everyone to take a moment to test their
smoke alarms by using the test button, replacing the batteries, and
confirming that no alarm is older than 10 years.
"A residential fire can break out even in the most fire-cautious
homes. Being prepared for the event of a fire must include a
working smoke alarm and a well practiced home fire escape plan,"
said Fire Marshal Jon Pegg. "If
you're not doing so already, press the test button and start your
monthly testing today."
To promote "Test Your Smoke Alarm Day", the OFM developed
a suite of print and digital materials for the fire service to use
across Ontario, who, over the past
weeks, have enthusiastically promoted the day across social media
channels and digital billboards, in municipal office buildings,
libraries, community centres, and arenas.
"Ensuring that our smoke alarms are functioning properly is a
simple, yet critical, action that can protect our homes, belongings
and families from the devastating impacts of fires," said Solicitor
General Michael Kerzner. "I'm taking
the pledge to test my smoke alarms every month and I urge every
homeowner and business owner to do the same. Together, let's make
testing our smoke alarms a routine practice and keep our
communities safe."
Test your alarm and rest easy knowing that the device is ready
to alert you and your family in the event of a fire.
Quick Facts:
- Most fatal fires occur in homes that do not have working smoke
alarms.
- Smoke alarms should be tested monthly with batteries changed at
least once a year. Smoke alarms should be replaced after 10 years
of service.
- In Ontario, smoke alarms have
been legally required to be installed on every storey and outside
all sleeping areas since 2006.
About the Office of the Fire Marshal
The Office of the Fire Marshal (OFM) provides leadership and
expertise on fire safety and works to minimize the impact of fire
and other public safety hazards on people, property, and the
environment in Ontario.
SOURCE Office of the Fire Marshal