Smoke Alarms

Alarmed for Life 2024

• Members of South Bruce Fire and Rescue will be going door to door to check for working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.
• We will try to get to as many residences as we can both urban and rural.
• The program will go all summer (and into early fall depending on weather).
• This is an educational visit, no fines will be issued for missing alarms.
• Participation is voluntary, but you will be entered to win prizes donated by local businesses.

 Thank you to our 2024 Sponsors

• Usborn Hibbert Mutual Insurance
• Miller Mutual Insurance
• Equipment Ontario
• Elora Road Meats
• P.E. Inglis Holdings and C&P Portables
• Nuclear Waste Management Organization

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Smoke Alarms

• There are various options available when it comes to smoke alarms. They can be either electrically connected, battery-operated, or a combination of both. Remember, when replacing a smoke alarm, ensure to replace it with the same type (battery-operated, electrically connected, or a combination).
• Smoke alarms should be installed on every floor of your house and outside of each sleeping area. Be sure to replace alarms that are over a decade old, as smoke alarms have a limited lifespan. Depending on the age of your house, you may also have alarms inside each bedroom.
• When installing smoke alarms, it is recommended to install them on the ceiling. Be cautious of placing them near bathrooms, heating appliances, windows, and ceiling fans. Remember to always follow the manufacturer's guidelines when setting up smoke alarms.
• Remember to test your smoke alarms every month by pressing the test button and listening for the alarm.
• When your smoke alarm's warning beeps, replace the battery right away; don’t delay. For regular batteries, it's advised to replace them twice a year, coinciding with daylight saving time changes. Some new smoke alarms feature a 10-year sealed battery, eliminating the need for battery replacements.

Landlord and Tenant Responsibilities

Landlords must:

• Install smoke alarms in accordance with the Ontario Fire Code.
• Maintain smoke alarms in operating condition.
• Maintain primary and secondary power supplies that serve smoke alarms.
• Provide a copy of the manufacturer’s maintenance instructions.
• The same is true for carbon monoxide alarms.

Tenants must:

• Not disable the smoke alarm.
• Notify the landlord as soon as you are aware the smoke alarm in the unit is disconnected or not operating properly.
• The same is true for carbon monoxide alarms.