Smoke Alarms

Every home in Ontario must have a working smoke alarm on every story and outside all sleeping areas. This applies to all single family, semi-detached, and town homes, whether owner occupied or rented. A working smoke alarm in the home gives you early warning of a fire. Most fatal fires happen at night when people are sleeping.

Remember to replace smoke alarms that are more than 10 years old. Smoke alarms do not last forever.

Causes of fires

Common causes of house fires include:

• Careless smoking
• Improperly installed or improperly maintained wood stoves or fireplaces
• Careless use of heating equipment
• Faulty wiring
• Careless use of cooking equipment
• Careless use of flammable liquids

Where to install smoke alarms

Here are a few things to consider when installing your smoke alarm:

• If anyone in the household sleeps with the bedroom door closed, consider installing a smoke alarm inside the bedroom.
• It is best to use interconnected smoke alarms. When one smoke alarm sounds, they all sound.
• On floor levels not containing sleeping areas, install smoke alarms in the living area or at stairwells leading to an upper floor.
• A smoke alarm should be on the ceiling or high on a wall. Keep smoke alarms away from the kitchen to reduce false alarms. They should be at least 10 feet (3 meters) from the stove.
• People who are hard of hearing or deaf can use special alarms. These alarms have strobe lights and bed shakers.
• Do not install smoke alarms near vents where air movement may prevent the alarm from working.
• When installing smoke alarms, be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions.
• More information on the maintenance of smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms can be found here. 

What do I do if my smoke alarm goes off?

1. Get everyone outdoors immediately.
2. Call 911 from a safe location.
3. Ensure all family members meet at the meeting place. Please see our Fire Escape Plan example. 
4. DO NOT go back in the home for anything. GET OUT AND STAY OUT!!