How to keep your family safe

STEP 1

Install smoke alarms

Install smoke alarms on each level of your home, including the basement. On levels with bedrooms, it’s recommended to mount a smoke alarm outside of the rooms. If you sleep with the door closed, add one inside the bedroom, too, to make it easy to hear. Always follow the manufacturer’s directions when you’re installing them.

STEP 2

Change the batteries regularly

Make sure to change the batteries at least twice a year. A good rule of thumb is to change them during daylight savings time. You should also test them monthly. 

STEP 3

Important reminder

Remember to never take down an alarm or remove the batteries to silence a nuisance alarm caused by cooking or shower steam. Press the hush button to silence a nuisance alarm. Smoke alarms should be installed at least 3 metres from a cooking appliance to minimize false alarms when cooking. 

STEP 4

Replace smoke alarms every 10 years

Whether your smoke alarms are battery operated or hardwired, they should be replaced with new ones if they’re 10 years old or older.

STEP 5

Install a carbon monoxide alarm

Carbon monoxide, also called CO, cannot be seen and has no smell or taste, but it can be deadly. CO comes from everyday sources, such as gas or propane furnaces, water heaters, dryers and stoves, as well as gas or wood fireplaces. Therefore it’s important to have at least one CO alarm in your home. The ideal location is in a hallway outside of bedrooms.

STEP 6

Important reminder

Choose a unit that is marked certified by the Canadian Standards Association or CSA 6.19-01. Follow the manufacturer’s directions for installation and test it regularly.

STEP 7

Test alarms monthly

Test smoke alarms at least once a month using the test button. Gently vacuum your smoke alarm monthly to prevent dirt from blocking the sensor.

STEP 8

Have a fire extinguisher on hand

Make sure you have at least one fire extinguisher in your home. For maximum safety, it’s ideal to have three — one in the kitchen, one in the basement and one in the garage. Choose a model that you can comfortably pick up and use, remembering that these are only for small fires.

STEP 9

Familiarize yourself with your fire extinguisher

Make sure you’re knowledgeable about how to use the extinguisher before you’re faced with a fire. Install your fire extinguishers near an escape route, in an easily accessible area.

STEP 10

Inspect and service your fire extinguishers regularly

Inspect and service your extinguishers regularly, based on the manufacturer’s instructions.