Quinte West Fire and Emergency Services is offering a friendly reminder to check and change your smoke and carbon monoxide alarm batteries as clocks go back one hour at 2 a.m. this Sunday.
Officials say working smoke alarms provide early warning and critical time to escape in an emergency.
Deputy Fire Chief Rick Caddick says most fatal home fires happen where there is no working smoke alarm, so it’s important to keep tabs on the strength of the batteries to protect everyone.
By law, smoke alarms must be installed on every level of the home and outside all sleeping areas.
For added protection, you’re encouraged to place alarms inside bedrooms as well.
Homes with fuel-burning appliances, fireplaces, or attached garages must also have carbon monoxide alarms located outside sleeping areas.
Carbon monoxide is a colourless and odourless gas that can be deadly if undetected. Having functioning carbon monoxide alarms, combined with regular maintenance of fuel-burning appliances, helps save lives.
Residents are reminded that removing or disabling smoke or carbon monoxide alarms is illegal. Violating the Ontario Fire Code may result in fines or charges under the Fire Protection and Prevention Act.
For questions about testing your smoke alarm or having it inspected, please contact Quinte West Fire Station 1, at 613-392-6557.
(BROCK ORMOND)


