Fire department to conduct smoke and CO alarm checks in Ottawa residences next week
In a bid to promote the importance of having working smoke alarms in all homes, firefighters in Ottawa and Toronto are set to embark on a series of door-to-door visits. This initiative, known as the "Wake Up!" Program, was first launched in 2005, following a tragic fire at the Mekong Grocery store on Somerset Street West in Chinatown, which claimed five lives due to the absence of working smoke alarms.
Over the coming weeks, firefighters will visit various neighbourhoods in both cities. In Ottawa, they will be conducting door-to-door visits from September 22 to 29. The visits will take place between 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. on weekdays and between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. on the weekend.
During these visits, firefighters will offer to inspect, test, install, or replace smoke alarms, and provide residents with valuable fire safety tips. They will also encourage residents to test their carbon monoxide alarms regularly, as these devices are equally important in ensuring home safety.
The City of Ottawa recommends testing smoke and carbon monoxide alarms at least once per month. Each smoke and carbon monoxide alarm has a "test" button that should emit a loud sound when pushed. Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms should be replaced according to manufacturer instructions, typically every 7 to 10 years.
Residents are not obligated to provide firefighters access to their home, but they are encouraged to take advantage of this free service. Homes are required to have a working smoke alarm on each floor and outside each sleeping area, and carbon monoxide alarms outside sleeping areas if the home has an attached garage, a wood stove, or a fuel-fired appliance.
September 28 is designated as "Test Your Smoke Alarm Day" in Ottawa, and residents are encouraged to test their smoke alarms annually on this day. The Wake Up! Program initially installed alarms in about 40% of the homes visited, but today that number has dropped to three percent due to community awareness and stronger fire safety habits.
The program is voluntary, and all services are provided to residents for free. This year marks the 20th anniversary of a devastating blaze in Ottawa, which has led to a push to promote smoke alarms in all homes. The "Wake Up!" Program is designed to help residents test their smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and improve their fire safety.
In addition to Ottawa, firefighters in Toronto will also be conducting similar visits to promote fire safety. This initiative underscores the importance of being prepared and vigilant in ensuring the safety of our homes and families.
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