Residents reminded to check their smoke alarms as part of Fire Prevention Week

October 6 to 12, 2024 is Fire Prevention Week and this year’s theme is “Smoke Detectors: Make them Work for you!”

Data from the National Fire Protection Association shows that most home fire deaths occur in homes with no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms. Having working smoke alarms in the home can reduce the risk of dying in a home fire by more than half.

“Smoke alarms can make a life-saving difference, but they have to be working in order to provide that protection,” says Fire Chief Richard “Andy” Anderson. “This year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign reinforces the importance of smoke alarms and what’s needed to install, test and maintain them.”

Key messages for this year’s Fire Prevention Week include:

• Install smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each separate sleeping area (like a hallway), and on each level (including the basement) of the home.
• Make sure smoke alarms meet the needs of all family members, including those with sensory or physical disabilities.
• Test smoke alarms at least once a month by pushing the test button.
• Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old or don’t respond when tested.

The St. Marys Fire Department has organized a variety of events for Fire Prevention Week:

• Sparky Visit and Swag Bag Booth: October 9, 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Your Independent Grocer
• Senior Services Fire Safety Workshop: October 11, St. Marys Friendship Centre
• Fire Department Open House: October 12, 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Look for the ad in this week’s edition of the St. Marys Independent for full event details! 

For more information on Fire Prevention Week, visit the Town’s website (townofstmarys.com/firepreventionweek), Facebook page (facebook.com/stmarysontario) and Twitter account (twitter.com/townofstmarys).

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For media inquiries:
Richard “Andy” Anderson, Director of Emergency Services/Fire Chief
519-284-2340, ext. 201 | randerson@town.stmarys.on.ca