WESTLOCK COUNTY – As communities across the region observe Fire Prevention Week, this year’s theme highlights a critical aspect of home safety: smoke alarms.
“Smoke detectors are the leading lifesaving device in home fire safety,” said Westlock County Manager of Protective Services John Biro. “Most fatal home fires occur at night while people are asleep. Smoke detectors can alert sleeping residents before they become fire victims. By installing and maintaining smoke detectors in your home you can reduce your chances of dying in a fire by 50 per cent.”
Biro noted that the most common causes of fires responded to by Westlock County firefighters include kitchen mishaps, heating equipment failures, chimney fires, and overloaded electrical systems.
He recommends installing smoke detectors on every level of the home and in every sleeping area.
“They should be tested monthly and the batteries should be replaced at least yearly. Never borrow the battery from your smoke detector.”
In the past 16 years, Westlock County has had two house fires resulting in fatalities, one in 2014 and another in 2018. To prevent further tragedies, Biro advises homeowners to follow supplier instructions when installing smoke alarms and to keep maintenance guidelines easily accessible.
For those facing difficulties with installation, Biro suggests seeking assistance from family or friends. Smoke alarms must be mounted on or near ceilings, with at least one detector on every story, including basements.
"Smoke detectors should be installed on every level of the home and in every room where someone sleeps," he said. "Smoke detectors should be tested monthly and the batteries should be replaced at least yearly, better yet, when you change your clock in the spring and fall, change your detector battery. Never borrow the battery from your smoke detector."
He added that improper placement, battery issues, or general wear and tear can lead to false alarms. Detectors should be replaced every 10 years or according to the manufacturer’s guidance.
In homes with multiple smoke alarms, Biro recommends wiring them together so that if one alarm sounds, the others will activate as well.
“In homes with secondary suites, all alarms should be interconnected to ensure maximum safety,” he advised.
“Smoke alarms in a house with a secondary suite should be wired so that activation of one alarm causes all alarms in the house with a secondary suite to sound.”
Any inquiries can be made to Westlock County Protective Services Department by calling 780-307-0579 or emailing [email protected] or [email protected]
