Cornwall Fire Service reminds residents to check their smoke alarms

Test smoke alarms regularly to ensure they are working.

Install battery-operated smoke alarms or electrically-connected alarms with a battery back-up.

Develop and practice a fire escape plan to ensure everyone knows what to do if a fire occurs.

It’s the law in Ontario to have working smoke alarms on every storey of the home and outside all sleeping areas. Failure to comply with the law can result in a ticket of $235 or a fine of up to $50,000 for individuals or $100,000 for corporations.

The Cornwall Fire Service will be conducting a Smoke Alarm Program beginning with a blitz in September. Firefighters will be visiting homes to ensure they comply with the Ontario law. Should a smoke alarm be absent or not working, firefighters will provide a new one to the homeowner. The program is voluntary and homeowners are not obligated to let firefighters into their homes.

“We want to educate people of the importance of having a working smoke alarm,” said Deputy Chief McCullough.