Change clocks and smoke alarm batteries this weekend

City of Toronto Media Relations has issued the following:

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News Release:  March 7, 2014   

Change clocks and smoke alarm batteries this weekend

Daylight saving time starts this weekend, when we need to turn our clocks ahead one hour. Toronto Fire Services reminds residents that it's also time to replace the batteries in your smoke alarms – and carbon monoxide alarms if you have them.

Every home in Ontario must have a working smoke alarm on every level and outside all sleeping areas. By providing early warning and critical extra seconds for escape, working smoke alarms can cut in half your family’s chance of dying in a fire.

"By installing and maintaining a working smoke alarm on every level of your home, you are ensuring that your family is equipped with the best defence against the devastating effects of fire,” said Toronto Fire Chief Jim Sales.

Smoke alarm tips:

- When installing a smoke alarm, read the manufacturer’s instructions on proper placement, testing and maintenance.

- Test your smoke alarms monthly using the test button.

- Replace smoke alarm batteries at least once a year and whenever the low-battery warning chirps.

- Replace smoke alarms if they are 10 years and older.

- Avoid removing the battery as response to the activation of a smoke alarm from cooking or steam. Instead of removing the battery, move the smoke alarm or purchase a smoke alarm with a hush-button feature that will temporarily silence the alarm.

Homeowners have a responsibility to install and maintain their smoke alarms. Landlords are responsible for ensuring that their rental properties comply with the law.

Tenants whose rented properties do not have the required number of smoke alarms should contact their landlord immediately. It is against the law for tenants to remove smoke alarm batteries or to tamper with their alarms in any way.

Failure to comply with the Ontario Fire Code smoke alarm requirements could, upon conviction, result in a maximum fine of up to $50,000 for individuals, imprisonment, or both, and up to $100,000 for corporations, imprisonment, or both.

More information is available at http://www.toronto.ca/fire/prevention.

Toronto is Canada's largest city, the fourth largest in North America, and home to a diverse population of about 2.8 million people. It is a global centre for business, finance, arts and culture and is consistently ranked one of the world's most livable cities. Toronto is proud to be the Host City for the 2015 Pan American and Parapan American Games. For information on non-emergency City services and programs, Toronto residents, businesses and visitors can visit http://www.toronto.ca, call 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, or follow us @TorontoComms.

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Media contact: Toronto Fire Services Media Line, 416-338-0763