Fire chief urges people to test their smoke alarms for Fire Prevention Week

September 19, 2014 · 0 Comments

Caledon Fire and Emergency Services reminds all residents that working smoke alarms can make a life-saving difference in a fire.
That’s the message behind this year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign: “Working Smoke Alarms Save Lives: Test Yours Every Month!”
During Fire Prevention Week, from Oct. 5 to 11, Caledon Fire and Emergency Services will be emphasizing the importance of having working smoke alarms in the home and testing them monthly.
“In a fire, seconds count,” said Chief David Forfar. “Roughly half of home fire deaths result from fires reported at night between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m. when most people are asleep. Home smoke alarms can alert people to the presence of toxic smoke and give everyone an opportunity to get out alive.”
This year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign includes the following smoke alarm messages:
• Install smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each separate sleeping area and on every level of the home, including the basement.
• Interconnect all smoke alarms throughout the home. This way, when one sounds, they all do.
• Test alarms at least monthly by pushing the test button.
• Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old or sooner if they don’t respond properly.
• Make sure everyone in the home knows the sound of the smoke alarm and understands what to do when they hear it.
• Create and practice a home escape plan to help you survive a fire in your home.
Caledon Fire and Emergency Services will be out in the community during Fire Prevention Week to promote the message behind the campaign, or people can stop by one of the fire stations to learn more.
To download a Home Escape Planning Grid, go to www.caledon.ca/fire or for more information, phone 905-584-2272, ext. 4303.