Smoke Alarms

Smoke alarms are the number-one life-saving detection system when a fire occurs at home.

Of the countless injuries and deaths that are caused by fires, many occur when occupants are sleeping or do not immediately notice the dangers of the fire before it spreads. In many fatal fires, investigations reveal that no smoke alarms were installed or the batteries had been removed from the alarms.

It is the law for all Ontario homes, including single family, semi-detached, town homes, condominiums, apartments, RVs, campers and mobile homes, to have a working smoke alarm on every level of the home and outside all sleeping areas, whether owner-occupied or rented.

Learn more about smoke alarms and maintenance, including:

Choosing the best alarm (ionization and photoelectric alarms)
Where to install smoke alarms
Maintaining your alarm

Frequently asked questions

View some of the more frequently asked questions about smoke alarms or contact us if you have any further questions.

What is a smoke alarm?

A smoke alarm is a battery- or electrically-operated device that senses the presence of smoke. It is designed to sound an alarm within the room it is located to alert occupants of the presence of danger.

Properly located and maintained smoke alarms have proven to save lives and reduce the level of property damage. However, working smoke alarms only make up part of an overall home fire escape plan. Adopting fire-safe behaviours and practicing your plan are also essential.

Why do smoke alarms activate when there is no fire?

Smoke alarms can activate when there is no fire due to improper location, unclean condition, installation troubles, or it can be activated from the heat and smoke from cooking. Power interruptions or a loose electrical connection can also cause alarms to activate.

Ensure your alarm is placed at least 20 feet from appliances where possible, including furnaces, fireplaces or ovens and at least three feet from heat or air conditioning vents. Check the alarm for dust or dirt buildup and clean if necessary.

Can I silence my alarm when it goes off?

Some alarms have a pause or hush feature. They are designed to be silenced by the resident without the need for removing the battery or power source. When silenced, the alarm automatically resets itself after a few minutes, ensuring continuous protection.

Do smoke alarms last forever?

Like all electronic devices, smoke alarms have a limited lifespan and are subject to failure. Manufacturers instructions will tell you when your alarm needs to be replaced but smoke alarms generally will not last more than 10 years. If your alarm is older than 10 years, we recommend replacing it.

After 10 years of use, your smoke alarm will have protected you and your family for 3,650 days, or almost 88,000 hours.

Is it possible for smoke alarms to fail in an emergency?

Yes, smoke alarms can fail very rarely due to dead or missing batteries or power source, improper location, age or being too far from the smoke or fire location. Always regularly test your alarms to ensure they are continually working.

I have a hard time reaching the alarm to change the batteries. What can I do?

Some smoke alarms that are available on the market come equipped with a long-life battery that will last for up to 10 years without the need to change the battery. These alarms are ideal for people with high ceilings or who have difficulty reaching the alarms.

However, the alarms still require regular testing. Ask a family member, friend or professional for assistance when testing alarms that are out of reach.