Smoke Alarm Safety

Protect your home and loved ones by ensuring compliance with the Ontario Fire Code , which mandates smoke alarms on every level of the home and outside the sleeping areas. Statistics show that fire fatalities often occur in homes without functioning smoke alarms. It is the responsibility of homeowners to install and maintain these life-saving devices. Start by checking the manufacturing date of your smoke alarm and remember the 10-year expiry rule: replace smoke alarms every 10 years. Regular maintenance is also crucial: test your smoke alarms monthly and if applicable replace the batteries annually (note that some models have sealed 10-year batteries that do not require replacement).

In Ontario, it is mandated to have working smoke alarms in your home. The Ontario Fire Code requires smoke alarms to be installed on every level of the home and outside the sleeping areas.
A functioning smoke alarm provides early warning of a fire, crucial for preventing fatalities, especially during nighttime when people are asleep.
Smoke alarms detect smoke and sound an alert, giving you precious time to evacuate safely.

When replacing smoke alarms, it is important to maintain the same level of protection or upgrade to better options. If you have an interconnected smoke alarm that is hard wired and includes a visual strobe light, you must replace with another hardwired unit that has the strobe function.
There are various types of smoke alarms on the market that use different power sources and have a range features:

Replaceable Battery-operated units: Batteries should be replaced at least once a year.
10-Year Sealed Battery Alarms: Designed with sealed, non-replaceable batteries lasting up to 10 years. This option eliminates the need for battery replacements.
Hardwired with Battery Backup: Connected to the home's electrical system for primary power. Includes a secondary battery backup for continued operation during power outages; battery backup can be either replaceable batteries or a sealed battery lasting up to 10 years.
Hardwired Interconnected Alarms: Interconnected alarms sound simultaneously when one detects smoke, providing comprehensive alert coverage throughout the home. They are directly wired the home's electrical wiring with a battery backup for uninterrupted operation.
Combination Alarms – Smoke/Carbon Monoxide Alarm Units: Available in either battery operated or hardwired with battery backup, these units detect both smoke and carbon monoxide (CO). They are ideal for placement near sleeping areas, as Ontario law requires CO alarm in these locations.
Voice Smoke Alarms: Available in either battery-operated or hardwired versions with battery backup, these units detect both smoke and carbon monoxide (CO). They are ideal for placement near sleeping areas, as Ontario law requires CO alarms in these locations.
Strobe Function: Some CO alarms or smoke alarms come equipped with strobe light, providing a visual alert to those who are deaf. Smoke alarms with a visual component are required by code in all newly constructed homes.

Depending on the year your home was built, will determine what your home smoke alarm system is equipped with.

Locate the manufacturing date on your smoke alarm (typically found on the back or side of the device). If there is no manufacture date the smoke alarm is older than 10 years and needs to be replaced.
Smoke alarms generally have a lifespan of 10 years. Replace smoke alarms every 10 years to ensure optimal performance. If unsure, consult the user manual or contact the manufacturer.
Smoke alarms may need to be replaced before the 10-year mark, if you notice frequent false alarms, failure to respond during testing, and/or periodic “chirping” / beep indicating end of life, malfunction, or low battery.
Outdated smoke alarms may not detect fires as effectively.; Regular replacement is essential to ensure your home remains protected.
When replacing smoke alarms, ensure you match or exceed the current level of protection in your home. For example, a hardwired smoke alarm with battery backup should not be replaced with a battery only unit.
Adhere to manufacturer's instructions for installation. For hardwired smoke alarms, consult a licenced electrician for hardwired applications.

Begin researching various products that will fit your needs. Most big box retailers and home improvement stores will carry a variety of makes and models.
If you are unsure, take pictures of your current system to guide you in the buying process.
Follow manufacturer’s instructions during installation to ensure optimal performance.
If there are any stickers or plastic packaging on the smoke alarm, ensure this is removed and discarded after installation Install smoke alarms on the ceiling to effectively detect rising smoke.
Do not install alarms near bathrooms, heating appliances, windows, or ceiling fans.
After installation, conduct a test by pushing the test button. Continue to test smoke alarm monthly.

Diagram of where to install a smoke alarm in a house

Conduct monthly tests to ensure smoke alarms are functioning correctly. If alarms fail to respond during testing, it may indicate a low battery, malfunction, or end of life, which means the unit needs replacement.
If your alarm is equipped with a replaceable battery, then it must be changed at least once per year.
All smoke alarms expire and must be changed every 10 years.
Regular cleaning and dusting are recommended, this can be done by gently vacuuming the alarm with the brush attachment or by using compressed air. Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Never paint or cover smoke alarms.

Specialized smoke alarms and alert devices are available for people who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Options include strobe lights, bed shakers, and alert devices that produce loud, mixed, low-pitched sounds to wake individuals in case of a fire.
For maximum protection and amplified alert, install smoke alarms with a visual component in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of the home.
Interconnect all smoke alarms in your home so that when one alarm detects smoke, all alarms sound simultaneously. An interconnected system amplifies the alert, increasing the likelihood of swift evacuation.
Visit the Canadian Hearing Association’s website for more information and to explore products that meet your specific needs.

Test rental unit smoke alarm(s) annually
Test rental unit smoke alarm(s) after every change in tenancy
Test rental unit smoke alarm(s) after the battery is replaced and if changes are made to the electrical circuit.
Owners MUST maintain 2 years’ worth of records
For testing documentation assistance: Download the Smoke Alarm and Carbon Monoxide Alarm Test Form – For Landlords

Install Smoke Alarms, it’s the law.

What type of smoke alarm do I need?

Understand the 10-year Rule and Smoke Alarm Expiry.

Replacement and Installation Process

Ongoing Maintenance and Testing of Smoke Alarms

Smoke Alarms for people who are deaf or hard of hearing - Accessibility for All:

Landlords of Rental Suites Ontario Fire Code Requirements

Smoke Alarm Tips - Translated Media PDF