Fire Chief Urges Residents to Install Smoke Alarms and Practice Home Fire Escape Plans

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In the wake of recent fatal fires and serious injuries in Oshawa, Brighton and Midland this week, Caledon Fire & Emergency Services reminds residents to ensure they have working smoke alarms on every storey of their home and outside all sleeping areas. It is also strongly advised that a home fire escape plan be created and practiced with everyone in the home.

“Fire moves so fast that you may have less than 60 seconds to safely escape, so early warning is crucial to survival,” says Fire Chief Bailey. “Only working smoke alarms give you that early warning. It’s up to each household to make sure smoke alarms are regularly tested so that these types of tragedies do not happen in the Town of Caledon,” continued Chief Bailey.

Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm Tips:

  1. Install smoke alarms on every storey and outside all sleeping areas of your home. For added protection, install a smoke alarm in every bedroom according to manufacturer’s recommendations. Larger homes may require additional smoke alarms.
  2. Install carbon monoxide alarms outside all sleeping areas if your home has a fuel-burning appliance, fireplace or attached garage. For added protection, install a carbon monoxide alarm on every storey of your home according to manufacturer’s recommendations.
  3. Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms monthly by pressing the test button. Change the batteries every year. Replace alarms according to manufacturer’s recommendations.

Simple Steps for Home Fire Escape Planning Include:

  1. Everyone should know two ways out of each room, if possible.
  2. All exits must be unobstructed and easy to use.
  3. Plan who will be responsible for helping young children, older adults and anyone who needs assistance to escape.
  4. For accountability, choose a meeting place outside, such as a tree or a neighbor’s home.
  5. Call the fire department from outside the home, from a cell phone or a neighbor’s home.
  6. Practice your home fire escape plan.
  7. Once out, stay out. Never re-enter a burning building.

For more information, contact: www.caledon.ca/fire for more information and safety tips.

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Media Contact:
Strategic Initiatives | Communications
905.584.2272 | communications@caledon.ca

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