Change Your Clocks – Change Your Batteries on Saturday

Chief of Fire Prevention and Public Education Harry Olivieri reminds everybody of the clocks being turned back one hour on Sunday November 2, 2009. Chief Olivieri says, “There isn’t a better time to serve as a reminder than when you change the clocks to also change your smoke alarm batteries”.

Captain David Ford also suggests after changing the batteries, to test the alarm and make sure it will sound in the event of an emergency. Ford says, “One way to test the alarm is to hold a lit incense stick 10”– 12” below the device and let the smoke drift upwards into it until the alarm sounds”. Once the alarm sounds, fan the smoke away and consider giving it a quick vacuum to remove any dust or spider webs that have accumulated over the past few months.

Every bit as important is having and rehearsing a home escape plan in the event of a fire. Ford says, “Developing and rehearsing a home escape plan will ensure a quick, safe evacuation of family members”, adding, “Adults and children need to plan and practice their home escape plan”.

Since 2006 it has been law that a working smoke alarm is required on every floor and near any bedroom areas. Ford stresses, “Properly installed and maintained smoke alarms prevents injury, saves lives and loss of property from the ravages of fire”.

Additional pamphlets, brochures and display smoke alarms are available at the Acton and Maple Avenue Fire Stations or the Information Centre at Georgetown Marketplace.

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