Smoke Alarms
Smoke alarms are required in all homes under the Ontario Fire Code and the Ontario Building Code. Smoke alarm requirements differ based on the year of home construction. It is the homeowner’s responsibility to make sure the following requirements are met and to ensure they are in working order by changing the batteries twice per year and testing them monthly.
Smoke Alarm Requirements |
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If you are a tenant, please contact your landlord for smoke alarms. Replace smoke alarms as directed by the manufacturer and change the batteries in battery-operated alarms twice per year. Test alarms monthly to make sure they are working properly. |
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Purchasing a Smoke Alarm | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
You can purchase a smoke alarm from most big-box stores like Walmart, Canadian Tire or Home Depot, as well as online. When purchasing a smoke alarm it is crucial to purchase an alarm that bears a recognized certification marking. Canadian certification marks indicate that these products have been assessed by laboratories accredited by the Standards Council of Canada and that the products meet national standards. When purchasing a smoke alarm, look for a recognized Canadian certification mark such as CSA, cUL, ULC or cETL, which should appear directly on the product, not just the packaging. A list of Canadian certification marks can be found here. |
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Smoke Alarm Installation | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
When installing a smoke alarm always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Because smoke rises smoke alarms need to be affixed on, or near, the ceiling.
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Smoke Alarm Maintenance | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
If properly installed and cared for most smoke alarms should last approximately 10 years. After a smoke alarm is installed monthly, semi-annual and yearly maintenance is required to ensure your smoke alarms are functioning at peak performance:
While you have your alarm down check the side or back of the alarm for a replacement date. If the alarm is ten years or older it is time to replace it with a brand new alarm – even if it is hardwired. |
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Smoke Alarm Disposal | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Once your smoke alarm has reached its end of life it is time to dispose of it. Before discarding your alarm make sure to remove the batteries or for alarms with a concealed battery backup disable the alarm using the switch on the back of the alarm. Smoke alarms can be disposed of in your regular municipal household garbage. |