Thursday, September 28, 2023, is Newfoundland’s first annual Test Your Smoke Alarm Day! As part of Test Your Smoke Alarm Day, all residents are encouraged to learn more about smoke alarms, fire safety, and home fire escape planning, which can save the lives of you and your loved ones.

Smoke alarms are a key part of a fire escape plan. When there is a fire, smoke spreads fast. Most injuries or deaths that occur from residential fires are because of the smoke, not the fire. Working smoke alarms give you early warning so you can get outside quickly.

• Install a smoke alarm inside each sleeping room, outside all sleeping areas, and on every level of the home.
• Test each alarm at least once a month, by pressing the test button, and replace the batteries at least twice a year. If you hear the smoke alarm “chirp” intermittently, the battery needs to be replaced immediately.
• Smoke alarms may also be hard-wired into the electrical system. These should have a battery back-up so they will still work if there is a power outage.
• For the best protection, have smoke alarms interconnected so when one sounds, they all sound.
• Replace the smoke alarm when it reaches 10 years of age, or sooner if it malfunctions.
• If anyone in your home is deaf or hard of hearing, you should consider purchasing flashing or vibrating smoke alarms.

SJRFD encourages all residents to test their smoke alarms on September 28, and once a month thereafter! Only working smoke alarms can save lives! Test yours by pushing the test button!

For more information contact:
Captain Cara Pardy
Fire Prevention Officer
St. John’s Regional Fire Department
(709) 576-3905
E-mail: fireprevention@stjohns.ca