Got a job for you today.
It's easy.
It will only take a couple of minutes.
Go around the house and push the button to test your smoke alarms.
"In 2022, the Office of the Fire Marshal put out that we saw in Ontario, 133 fire fatalities, many of which were resulting from a lack of working smoke alarms in homes around the province ... that is the highest number we've seen in 20 years, which is definitely startling," said Barrie Fire and Emergency Service Public Educator, Kate Foster.
But before you can test your alarms, there have to be devices to test.
Barrie Deputy Fire Chief Carrie Clark told Barrie 360 that's too often not the case, "When we go into a building for inspections or investigations after a fire, often we see the mounting rings on the ceiling, we see the pigtails of the electrical, but we don't find the alarms where they need to be, and it is heartbreaking."
Smoke alarms are mandatory in Ontario. Failure to comply with Fire Code smoke alarm requirements can result in a $360 ticket or fine of up to $50,000 for individuals or $100,000 for corporations.
Placement of smoke alarms is key, says Foster, "in your home on every level and outside of sleeping areas. The other thing to consider is if you have small children or elderly people in your home, you may want to add extra alarms in their rooms or in the areas that they inhabit, especially if they sleep with their door closed."
When a smoke alarm sounds, you have about two minutes to get out of the house before you're overcome by the smoke and flames. Ideally, you have an escape plan in place and have practised it. Get everyone out of the house, then call 9-1-1.
If a device starts chirping, it's a sign it may need a new set of batteries, or needs to be replaced.
Don't delay. Do what needs to be done to keep your family safe.
As part of Test Your Smoke Alarm Day, Barrie Fire & Emergency Service is also holding two contests for residents:
Like, share, or comment on Barrie Fire’s Test Your Smoke Alarm Day social media posts (Facebook, X and Instagram) for the chance to win a pop-up, retro block party for your neighbourhood.
And fill out the contest form to confirm you've tested your smoke alarm at home. If enough residents fill out the form, Barrie Fire will host an extra Hot Summer Night event for residents in the summer of 2024.
For more fire safety tips, visit barrie.ca/firesafety.
banner image: file photo
