Last year, Ontario witnessed a tragic high of 133 fire fatalities – the most in two decades. Today, September 28th, marks the inaugural ‘Test Your Smoke Alarm Day,’ officially recognized by the Ontario Fire Marshal’s Office and Richmond Hill.
How can you join in?
It’s as simple as testing YOUR smoke alarms – let’s ensure everyone can be #SavedByTheBeep! And don’t forget to keep testing them monthly.
Help us spread the message by sharing a photo of your smoke alarm test on social media, using the hashtag #SavedByTheBeep. You’ll find free, multilingual resources at savedbythebeep.ca. Challenge your friends, tag @RHFES, and you might just win a fantastic prize pack!
As part of this special day, Richmond Hill Fire and Emergency Services encourage you to delve deeper into smoke alarms, fire safety, and crafting a home fire escape plan. Working smoke alarms cut home fire risk in half. Follow these essential tips:
• Monthly Testing: Make it a habit to test your smoke alarms every month. If they’re not working, replace the batteries or the unit.
• Yearly Battery Change: Change your smoke alarm batteries at least once a year or when the low-battery warning sounds.
• Replace Every Decade: Smoke alarms have a lifespan of 10 years and should be replaced when they expire.
• Legal Requirement: Remember, Ontario law mandates working smoke alarms on every home level and outside sleeping areas.
Fire incidents can happen when least expected, so make fire safety a regular practice to protect what matters most!
Learn more about ‘Test Your Smoke Alarm Day‘ at savedbythebeep.ca and discover additional fire prevention tips at RichmondHill.ca/FirePrevention.