Fire Safety Equipment
Knowledge of Fire Safety Equipment Improves Your Ability to Keep Your Family Safe
Smoke Alarms
In the event of a fire, every second counts. You may have only moments to escape safely, which is why early detection is absolutely critical. Working smoke alarms are your first line of defense — they provide those vital seconds that can mean the difference between life and death.
Smoke alarms alert you and your loved ones before the fire spreads, giving you time to act quickly and get out safely. But they can only protect you if they’re functioning properly. That’s why it’s essential to test your smoke alarms regularly, replace batteries as needed, and ensure they’re installed in key areas of your home, especially near sleeping areas and on every level of your house.
Don’t wait for an emergency to find out your alarms aren’t working. A few minutes of maintenance could save your life.
Smoke Alarm Facts: What You Need to Know
It’s the Law
Under the Ontario Fire Code, every home must have working smoke alarms on every level.
- Landlords are legally responsible for installing and maintaining smoke alarms, including testing, repairs, and replacements.
- Tenants must notify their landlord immediately if a smoke alarm is not working, shows a low battery signal, or has any electrical issues.
Disabling a smoke alarm is a serious offence and can result in fines.
Smoke Alarms Save Lives
Most fatal fires happen at night when people are asleep. Without a working smoke alarm, victims may never wake up. Smoke alarms provide early warning, giving you and your family precious time to escape safely.
One Smoke Alarm Isn’t Enough
Install smoke alarms:
- On every level of your home
- Outside all sleeping areas
- Inside bedrooms if doors are kept closed while sleeping
Smoke Alarms Don’t Last Forever
Smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years or sooner if they’re not functioning properly.
- Hard-wired alarms must be replaced with another hard-wired unit.
- Battery-operated alarms should be tested regularly and batteries replaced as needed.
Carbon Monoxide (CO) Alarms
Carbon Monoxide (CO) is a deadly gas you can’t see, smell, or taste — often called the “silent killer.” It’s produced when fuels like natural gas, propane, heating oil, kerosene, coal, charcoal, or wood don’t burn completely.
A working CO alarm is your first line of defence. It will sound loudly when dangerous levels of carbon monoxide are detected, giving you and your family the critical warning needed to evacuate immediately. CO alarms can also alert you to sudden failures in fuel-burning appliances, helping prevent serious harm.
Carbon Monoxide (CO) Alarm Facts: What You Need to Know
If Your Alarm Sounds: Act Fast
- Leave the building immediately and go to a safe location with fresh air. Make sure everyone in your home is accounted for.
- Call 9-1-1 once you’re outside and safe. Stay there until emergency responders arrive and confirm it’s safe to return.
Where to Install CO Alarms
Unlike smoke, carbon monoxide mixes evenly with the air, so CO alarms don’t need to be placed on the ceiling or high up. What matters most is location — install your CO alarm near sleeping areas so it’s loud enough to wake you in an emergency.
If your home has fuel-burning appliances or an attached garage, place a CO alarm adjacent to every sleeping area. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to ensure proper placement and performance.
Testing and Replacing CO Alarms
- Test your CO alarms monthly to ensure they’re working properly. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for testing and maintenance.
- Check the expiry date printed on the alarm. CO alarms don’t last forever. If the alarm is past its expiry date or if no date is visible, replace it immediately.
- Follow installation and replacement guidelines carefully to ensure your alarm provides reliable protection.
Contact Us
Corporation of the Township of Ramara
2297 Highway 12, PO Box 130, Brechin, ON, L0K 1B0
T. 705-484-5374
E. ramara@ramara.ca
Ramara Fire & Rescue Services
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