As we’ve just adjusted our clocks for Daylight Saving Time, it’s the perfect time to also check the safety of our homes—specifically your smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms. While you’ve gained that extra hour of sunshine, don’t forget to ensure your alarms are in proper working order, ready to protect you in case of an emergency.

Safety has always been a priority for me, especially when it comes to our homes and families. Vaughan Fire and Rescue Service (VFRS) offers essential tips to keep our homes safe. Having personally experienced a fire emergency in my kitchen, I can’t emphasize enough how important it is to take these precautions seriously. A moment of attention today can make all the difference tomorrow.

Fire and CO Alarm Maintenance: Essential Steps

1. Replace your alarms regularly:

   • Carbon Monoxide (CO) alarms should be replaced every 5 to 10 years, and smoke alarms every 10 years. Be sure to check for the expiration date clearly marked on each device. Replacing these alarms when needed ensures that they continue to function effectively, providing you with the protection you deserve.

2. Install Combination Smoke and CO Alarms:

   • Opt for combination smoke and CO alarms. These dual-function devices make testing and maintenance easier while providing both fire and carbon monoxide detection in one unit.

3. Test your alarms monthly:

   • Press the test button on each alarm at least once a month to confirm that they are functioning. If you hear a test sound, you know the device is operational. Testing regularly ensures that both smoke and CO alarms are ready to act when needed.

4. Install Interconnected Smoke Alarms:

   • If possible, install interconnected smoke alarms throughout your home. This means that if one alarm detects smoke or fire, all alarms will go off, notifying everyone in the house immediately. This is particularly important for larger homes where alarms in different areas may not be heard unless interconnected.

5. Clean and maintain your alarms:

   • Dust and dirt can accumulate and affect your smoke alarms. Every 6 months, vacuum your alarms gently using a soft brush attachment to remove dust and debris. Make sure you follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions. If your alarms are hardwired, remember to turn off the power before cleaning.

6. Proper installation of alarms:

   • Mount smoke alarms on the ceiling or high on the wall—ideally no more than 30 cm (12 inches) from the ceiling and away from corners. Avoid installing alarms near windows, doors, or air ducts, as drafts can interfere with their operation.

7. Know the sounds of your alarms:

   • Different alarms have different sounds, so it’s important that everyone in your home knows the difference. Make sure to familiarize yourself and your family with the emergency alarm sound, the low-battery warning, and the end-of-life alarm sound. Understanding these alerts can be life-saving in an emergency situation.

Special Considerations for Vulnerable Residents

Vaughan Fire and Rescue Service is working with CHATS Community Programs to install smoke alarms in homes of older adults who are at higher risk of fire-related injuries. If you or someone you know could benefit from these installations, you can contact VFRS for assistance. These alarms are particularly important in helping those who may have mobility or hearing challenges.

If your existing smoke alarms need testing or you have concerns about them, VFRS offers free fire safety checks. You can reach out to firerescue@vaughan.ca to schedule a visit.

It’s also crucial to remember that your CO alarm sounds different from your smoke alarm. Regularly test both types of alarms and ensure everyone in your household understands the different alarm sounds. Being aware of the warnings and knowing how to act quickly can help save lives.

How VFRS is Supporting the Community

In addition to offering valuable tips for home safety, VFRS has made a generous contribution to the community. They recently received a donation of $17,000 worth of smoke alarms from Kidde Canada. These will be installed in homes across Vaughan, particularly in areas where the risk of fire is higher, such as residences with older adults. This initiative helps to protect more families and ensures that everyone has access to life-saving equipment.

My Personal Experience: Why Fire Safety Matters

Having experienced a fire in my own kitchen, I can attest to how quickly things can escalate. What started as a routine cooking session turned into a dangerous situation in seconds. It was a stark reminder of how vital it is to have working smoke and CO alarms in every room. I want to share my story with you to highlight just how important fire safety is to all of us.

Stay Safe and Proactive

As we move into this beautiful spring season, let’s remember that fire safety is something that needs our attention year-round. Testing your alarms, maintaining them, and knowing how to act in case of an emergency can help protect you, your loved ones, and your home.

For more information on fire safety, or if you would like to request a fire safety check, be sure to visit vaughan.ca/fire. You can also watch the City’s video on the importance of checking your alarms for more tips.

Stay safe, stay proactive, and let’s all make this a spring of safety for our families and homes.