The Importance of Smoke AlarmsUncategorizedJanuary 16, 2018This past Monday, a house fire in Oshawa led to the tragic result of the death of an entire family. The fire on Monday claimed the lives of Steven Macdonald (the father of a pregnant daughter, who died trying to save other residents), single mother Lindsey Bonchek, Bonchek’s nine-year-old daughter Madeline, and her four-year-old son Jackson. What Durham Region fire marshals explained during a tearful press conference is what makes this story even more heartbreaking. It could have been prevented if the home been equipped with working smoke alarms. Ontario Fire Code requires working fire alarms in every building. Effective March 2006, it is the law for all Ontario homes to have a working smoke alarm on every floor and outside all sleeping areas. This covers single family, semi-detached and town homes, whether owner-occupied or rented. The owner of a building is responsible for complying with the Fire Code, except where otherwise specified, according to the Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services. In the wake of this tragedy, a number of officials from other Fire Services across the province have issued statements outlining the need the install smoke alarms and fire safety plans, such as this one from Brampton’s Fire Chief. Here are some home fire prevention and safety tips from Brampton Fire: Simple smoke and carbon monoxide alarm tips: Install smoke alarms on every floor and outside of every bedroom as per manufacturer’s recommendations. Install carbon monoxide alarms outside of every bedroom as per manufacturer’s recommendations. Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms monthly by pressing the test button. Change the batteries of your alarms every year. Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms wear out over time. Replace old alarms as per the manufacturer’s recommendations. Simple steps for home fire escape planning include: All exits must be unobstructed and easy to use. If someone in your home has a disability, plan a escape plan that takes into account everyone’s responsibilities including assisting anyone in the home with disabilities and children. Choose a safe meeting place outside of the home. Call the fire department once outside the home, use a cell phone or a neighbour’s phone. Practice your fire escape plan. Once out of the home do not go back inside. For people who live in apartment buildings and need assistance to escape: Tell the superintendent or landlord if you need help to escape during an emergency. Add your name to the “persons who require assistance” list in your building’s fire safety plan. Know the emergency procedures outlined in your building’s fire safety plan. Taking such steps would be the best way for people to prepare for a fire related emergency and protect your family.