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Test your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms TODAY

Did you know you should check your smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms once a month? Today marks the first Test Your Smoke Alarm Day in Ontario, which has been proclaimed by the City of Vaughan. 

Vaughan Fire and Rescue Service is taking this opportunity to remind you to test your alarms to make sure they are in good working order in the event of an emergency.

Be sure to follow these essential tips from VFRS to keep everyone in your household safe:

• Replace your CO alarms every five to 10 years and your smoke alarms every 10 years – they do expire and will have a date clearly marked on them.
• Use interconnected smoke alarms – when one alarm sounds, they should all sound throughout your home.
• Test all alarms at least once a month. Press the test button to be sure the alarm is working.
• Use special alarms for those who are hearing impaired – these alarms have strobe lights or bed shakers.
• Dust can clog a smoke alarm, so gently vacuum alarms every six months using a soft brush. Never vacuum electrically connected alarms unless you shut off the power. Test your unit when you are finished cleaning. 
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when installing, testing and maintaining smoke alarms.
• Mount smoke alarms on the ceiling or high on the wall – no more than 12 inches (30 centimetres) from the ceiling. Don’t install alarms near windows, doors or ducts because a draft can interfere with their operation – so can painting or placing decorations over an alarm.

Remember, your CO alarm sounds different than your smoke alarm. Test both alarms monthly and make sure everyone in your home knows the difference between the two alarm sounds. It’s also important to know the difference between the low-battery warning, end-of-life warning and emergency alarm sounds – consult your smoke and CO alarm manufacturer instructions.

VFRS recently installed a new logo at the centre ice of the Garnet A. Williams Community Centre skating rink, reminding everyone to protect what matters most and test your smoke alarms today.

For more information and fire safety tips, visit vaughan.ca/fire and watch the City’s video on the importance of checking your alarms.