Ottawa firefighters will be out in the community for eight days to encourage residents to install, test and ensure that smoke alarms in their homes are operating.
Officials will be out from September 14 to 21 as part of the annual Wake Up campaign.
During this period, homes throughout the city will receive visits from firefighters.
The Ontario Fire Code requires a working smoke alarm on each floor of all homes. As well, households that have fuel-fired appliances or an attached garage must have at least one working carbon monoxide alarm.
“If we go out and remind them of the safety tips and the things they can do to keep their families safe, then I think we’re going to have a city that is going to have less fire calls and a safer overall environment,” said Asst. Deputy Chief John Gillissie.
When it comes to smoke alarms fire officials are reminding residents to change their batteries when they change their clocks, test their alarms monthly, and get a new alarm after 10 years.
If a house does not have an alarm then officials will install one immediately. Officials will also provide residents with information on how to acquire a new or additional alarm if needed.
Visits will take place between 6 and 8 p.m. on weekdays and between 2 and 4 p.m. on weekends.
Residents are not obligated to provide officials with access to their homes. Officials say it is more of a courtesy call to promote fire safety.
If no one is home firefighters will leave safety information pamphlets in the mailbox.
