The GNWT and the Office of the Chief Fire Marshal are encouraging all northern residents to take part in “Test Your Smoke Alarm Day” on September 28th.
This is part of a national campaign that was initially started in Ontario, and in collaboration with the Council of Canadian Fire Marshals and Fire Commisioners. It is designed to raise awareness of the importance of working smoke alarms across the country.
Data gathered by Statistics Canada from 2015 to 2021 showed that only 37% of homes that were affected by fires had a working smoke alarm. Additionally, around three out of four fire fatalities occurred in homes where a working smoke alarm was either not installed or could not be confirmed.
The Office of the Fire Marshal is asking NWT residents to test their smoke alarms, by simply pressing the button until they hear the beep.
In a statement, Craig Halifax, the NWT Fire Marshal, said that “Smoke alarms save lives. Every home in the Northwest Territories should have working smoke alarms installed. As part of “Test Your Smoke Alarm Day” on September 28, 2024, I encourage all NWT residents to take a few seconds to test their smoke alarms, ensure they are working and not expired, and practice your home fire escape plan.”
Smoke alarms should be tested monthly with batteries changed at least once a year, while alarms with non-replaceable batteries are designed to remain effective for up to ten years.
