Fire Prevention Week – October 7-13, 2012
How Old are Your Smoke Alarms?
Smoke Alarms don’t last forever. After TEN years all smoke alarms NEED TO BE REPLACED with new ones.
Do YOU have a working Carbon Monoxide Alarm in your Home as well as a working Smoke Alarm on each level? If Not, Why Not?
Now is the time to replace these smoke alarms. Major retailers are having their sales on Fire Safety Items Now!
Landlords are responsible.
Smoke alarms are mandatory – it’s the law!
The 1997 edition of the Ontario Fire Code contains changes making Smoke Alarms mandatory in every dwelling unit. The landlord is responsible to install and maintain these devices.
Smoke alarms should be installed on every level of your home, including outside sleeping areas. Because smoke rises, you should place alarms on the ceiling. If you cannot do this, place them high up on a wall (25 cm or 6″ below the ceiling), according to manufacturer’s instructions. There are certain locations to avoid such as near bathrooms, heating appliances, windows, or close to ceiling fans. Test your alarm on a monthly basis by using the alarm test button or by introducing smoke from an incense stick or smoldering cotton string. Follow your owners manual.
Change your batteries on an annual basis, and remember to have and practice a Family Escape Plan.
DON’T FORGET
Test your smoke alarms once a month and change the batteries at least once a year!
Visit guelph.ca/fire for more fire safety information
For more Safety Tips please feel free to visit The Fire Guy