Smoke Alarms

Smoke alarms save lives and it's the law to have a smoke alarm in your home. Most home fires can be prevented. The Ontario Fire Code requires smoke alarms be placed in all households on every level and outside all sleeping areas. You will get a ticket or fine for not following the Code.

The Code also requires that your smoke alarms meet the Underwriters' Laboratories of Canada (ULC) standards. Smoke alarms that the ULC test and approve are marked with a label.

Maintenance of smoke alarms

It is very important to maintain your smoke alarm and make sure that it's installed correctly. The Richmond Hill Fire Prevention Division offers tips to help you maintain your alarms including:

• Install smoke alarm securely on the ceiling or the wall
• Check for physical damage, paint coverage or excess grease and dirt
• Check that ventilation holes are clean and not blocked by anything
• Test your smoke alarm at least once a month using the test button, make sure the alarm sounds when the button is pushed
• Replace smoke alarm batteries twice a year, every spring and fall when the clocks are changed
• Listen for an occasional chirping sound, this could mean the alarm batteries are low or there is too much dust on the alarm
• Clean the alarm with a vacuum brush at least once every six months

Replacing a smoke alarm

You may need to replace a smoke alarm that isn't working properly. Some reasons for replacing a smoke alarm include:

• The smoke alarm has gone over the manufacturer's recommended life cycle
• The alarm doesn't sound when you test it, even after you confirm the batteries are full or the AC power supply is properly connected
• The exterior case is damaged or painted
• The smoke alarm is covered with smoke stains, heavy grease or dirt
• The smoke alarm has frequent false alarms that are not caused by cooking or steam
• Batteries appear to be leaking or corroding

Call the Richmond Hill Fire Prevention Division at 905-883-5444 for more information.

Learn more from The Office of the Fire Marshal.