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Alarmed For Life!

2006

Alarmed For Life!

2006 A Guide for Developing a Community Smoke Alarm Program

Inside:

Ontario Office of the Fire Marshal 2006 Ontario.ca/firemarshal Rev. 08/2015

Alarmed for Life! 2006 ................................... 1 Planning for Success ....................................... 3 Smoke Alarms: The Basics ............................ 7 Qs & As........................................................... 11 Managing Nuisance Alarms ....................... 15 Public Awareness ......................................... 17 Compliance and Enforcement Strategies .. 21

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Alarmed for Life! 2006

Alarmed for Life! 2006 Alarmed for Life! was first introduced in 1995 to assist fire departments to plan and deliver community smoke alarm programs. With the introduction of the Fire Protection and Prevention Act in 1997, as well as the inclusion of smoke alarm requirements in the Fire Code, a revised version was distributed in 2002.

As a result of an amendment to the Fire Code that came into effect March 1, 2006, the Office of the Fire Marshal (OFM) has revised the program once again. Alarmed for Life! 2006 also contains new materials and tools to assist fire departments with their programs.

An important addition to the program is the inclusion of compliance and enforcement strategies. When the initial smoke alarm requirements came into effect in 1998, the OFM advised fire departments to introduce the new law to residents primarily through education, not enforcement. For many departments, this included distribution of literature, door-to-door safety checks, and often the offer of a free smoke alarm or battery. Although provisions for tickets and fines accompanied the law, they were seldom imposed.

While this approach increased awareness of the importance of working smoke alarms, it may have left the impression that compliance with Fire Code smoke alarm requirements is the responsibility of the fire department and not the homeowner. And while Ontarios fire death rate has dropped dramatically, the province continues to experience an unacceptable number of fire deaths in homes without working smoke alarms. Although preventing the fire in the first place would definitely be the best option, there is clearly a need to ensure homeowners understand and comply with their responsibilities regarding smoke alarms.

Clearly, compliance with an Ontario statute is the responsibility of its residents. The fire services role is to facilitate compliance as much as possible, through education, inspection andwhen necessaryprosecution.

Alarmed for Life! 2006 provides the information and materials required to make this transition as easy as possible for both the fire department and the community.

1 Office of the Fire Marshal 2006


Planning for Success Whether implementing a smoke alarm program for the first time, or revising an existing program, the value of planning cannot be over-estimated. The following are some of the basic components of good program development.

1 Establish Goals and Outcomes There is a lot of truth to the old adage: If you dont know where youre going, how will you know when you get there? In addition to providing a blueprint for the programs construction, establishing goals and outcomes will assist with its effective evaluation.

Goal: The goal of the program should simply state the long term result, e.g.: Every home in the community will be protected by working smoke alarms in accordance with the Fire Code requirements.

Outcomes: Program outcomes should be established to track progress toward the goal. These projected outcomes will provide a measure by which the success of the program can be gauged. The important thing to remember about outcomes is that they must be realistic, specific and measurable. Outcomes should be reviewed each year and revised, as necessary.

Examples of Program Outcomes:

25% increase in the number of homes in compliance with smoke alarmrequirements.

40% increase in number of residents receiving information about smoke alarms andhome escape planning.

2 Select appropriate activities The activities that will form the core of the smoke alarm program should be established in accordance with the needs and circumstances of the community. Determining what those needs and circumstances are involves an examination and analysis of local demographics, building stock and past residential fire experience. The Office of the Fire Marshals Public Fire Safety Guidelines, Selection of Appropriate Fire Prevention Programs 04-40-03 and Simplified Risk Assessment 04-40A-

Office of the Fire Marshal 2006


03 can provide assistance in conducting a local risk assessment. These guidelines can be accessed on the OFM website at www.ofm.gov.on.ca

If a door-to-door smoke alarm check will be part of the program, review the Compliance and Enforcement Strategies section before proceeding. Depending upon the activities selected, here are some things to consider:

Establish appropriate dates and times

Many home owners/occupants are not available during working hours from Monday through Friday. Therefore, consider conducting the program during evening hours and weekends. Try to avoid holidays and other special events that may be scheduled in the community.

Identify the priority area

The simplified risk assessment will assist in selecting target areas to begin the program by identifying, for example, the area with the highest incidence of fires or with the greatest potential of injuries or deaths resulting from fire. Another option is to select an area of the community with older homes that may be less likely to be equipped with the requisite number of smoke alarms. Other target areas might include those with high concentrations of seniors. Efforts should be made to contact the occupants (including all apartment units) in each of the dwellings you have targeted.

Promote the program

Use local media to inform the community about the smoke alarm program. It is important to make residents aware of how the program works, including their responsibilities for providing and maintaining smoke alarms. Try to avoid surprise visits to homes. Make every attempt to inform the residents in the target areas of the approximate dates and times during which the program will be conducted. Refer to the Public Awareness section for more information.

3 Obtain Materials and Resources Every smoke alarm program will require some handout materials and other resources to be truly effective. Use the outcomes established for each of the programs activities to help determine the type and quantity of materials required. Depending upon the needs and circumstances of the community, required materials and resources could include the following:


www.ofm.gov.on.ca


Install Smoke Alarms: Its the Law! information card Smoke Alarm Pointers information card Home fire escape planning information Other home fire safety information Smoke alarms Batteries Waivers Ticket book

Note: The Program Resources section includes many of the items listed above for the convenience of fire departments.

4 Train the Program Team It is important that all fire department personnel involved in the delivery of the smoke alarm program receive adequate and consistent training before its initial implementation. The following is a suggested outline of topics that should be covered in a training session:

Review the smoke alarm requirements of the Ontario Fire Code; Review the Fire Departments policy and/or Standard Operating Guideline; Review the programs goals and outcomes Discuss actions to take on discovery of non-compliance (for homeowners, landlords

and tenants); Discuss actions to take if denied entry into a dwelling; Review the various types and features of smoke alarms; Demonstrate and practice alarm installation and testing procedures; Discuss how to effectively interact with home owners/occupants; Review educational materials to be distributed during home visits; Discuss compliance and enforcement strategies; Review waiver form, if appropriate, and demonstrate its use; Review Data Collection Form and demonstrate its use.

To assist in training the program team, a Powerpoint presentation and speakers notes for fire service personnel is included on the Alarmed for Life! CD.



5 Develop a Standard Operating Guideline As with other fire department activities, a Standard Operating Guideline (SOG) should be developed and implemented for smoke alarm programs. Fire departments should ensure that their smoke alarm program is reflected in the fire department's establishing and regulating by-law and any council approved fire prevention policies that set the expected level of service. The Office of the Fire Marshal's Public Fire Safety Guideline "Fire Prevention Policy 04-45-03" can provide assistance in addressing these issues. The guideline can be accessed on the OFM website at www.ofm.gov.on.ca

6 Monitor and evaluate Ongoing evaluation is an essential component that will help to ensure the program is meeting its intended outcomes and continues to be effective and relevant. The outcomes established during the planning phase will provide the measures against which the programs effectiveness can be gauged. In order to evaluate the program, appropriate data must be gathered and analyzed. Sample forms are included in the Program Resources section to assist with this task. The forms can be used as they are, or modified to suit the departments program:

Data Collection Form: This form should be completed for every residence at which the fire department conducts a smoke alarm check.

Data Summary Form: Information gathered on the data collection forms can be tallied up and entered onto this form to get a quick and accurate picture of the results of the home smoke alarm checks.

Ongoing monitoring and evaluation will highlight areas of the program that need revision and indicate where efforts need to be focused. It will also help to ascertain the costs associated with the program and assist in the acquisition of sponsorship, if required.

Dont be too concerned if all of the stated outcomes are not met. A sound evaluation process will help to identify contributing factors. Use this information to streamline the program, modify outcomes, change activities or target a different client group.


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Smoke Alarms: The Basics Since the introduction of smoke alarms to the residential market in 1971, many advances have been made to the technology, features and effectiveness of these devices. The array of choices now available to consumers can be somewhat confusing and may cause them to turn to their fire department for answers. The following are some of the most commonly asked questions about smoke alarm operation and features.

(For additional questions and answers, refer to: Smoke Alarm Requirements for Dwelling Units under Section 2.13 of the Fire Code provided in the Resources section.)

Where should I install smoke alarms?

The Ontario Fire Code requires that smoke alarms be installed on every storey and outside all sleeping areas. Because smoke rises, smoke alarms should be installed on the ceiling. If this is not possible, or if frequent nuisance alarms are a concern, install them high up on a wall, according to the manufacturers instructions. Avoid placing alarms near bathrooms, heating appliances, windows or close to ceiling fans.

What does it mean when my smoke alarm chirps?

Its time to install a new battery. Underwriters Laboratories of Canada (ULC) requires that all smoke alarms have a low battery warning device that emits an intermittent signal (often a chirp) when the battery power is low. The warning signal itself will eventually stop after a few days, so smoke alarms should be tested when occupants return from an extended absence. It should also be noted that many smoke alarms with a pause feature chirp intermittently when in pause mode. The chirping will stop after a few minutes, when the alarm resets itself.

How often should I replace the battery?

Conventional smoke alarm batteries should be replaced annually, and when the low-battery indicator sounds. When replacing batteries, ensure the replacements are compatible with the manufacturers recommendations.

Smoke alarms are also available with long-life batteries that last up to ten years. When the battery wears out, simply replace the entire smoke alarm unit with a new one.



How do I know if I installed the battery correctly?

Standard 9V batteries used in many smoke alarms require snapping the batterys terminals into tight-fitting connectors. This can sometimes be awkward or difficult. Alarms with spring-metal terminal contacts provide much easier battery installation, but increase the possibility of installing the battery backward. Individuals installing batteries in smoke alarms must ensure the positive and negative terminals are correctly connected. Correct installation can be confirmed by pressing the test button until the alarm sounds.

How often should I test my smoke alarms?

It is recommended that smoke alarms be tested every month. Pressing and holding the test button located on the face of the unit until the alarm sounds will test the alarm feature of most smoke alarms.

Do smoke alarms need to be cleaned?

The inside of battery-operated smoke alarms should be cleaned at least once each year by using the soft brush attachment of the vacuum cleaner. Test the unit when finished. For electrically-connected smoke alarms, shut off the power to the unit and vacuum the outside vents only. Restore power and test the unit when finished. Do not paint any part of a smoke alarm.

What does the pause feature on smoke alarms do?

Pause or hush buttons allow occupants to silence nuisance alarms, such as those caused by burning toast or opening smoky ovens, and not affect the operation of the alarm. Without this feature, many occupants will inappropriately disable the alarm by disconnecting or removing the batteries.

Smoke alarms with the pause feature can be temporarily silenced in the event of a nuisance alarm. The pause will last for approximately seven to ten minutes, after which time the alarm will automatically return to normal operation. Smoke alarms with this feature discourage the dangerous practice of removing batteries or otherwise disabling the units. Whenever possible, fire departments should recommend that residents purchase smoke alarms with pause features, especially if they will be installed near kitchens or bathrooms. It should be noted that many alarms with a pause feature chirp intermittently while in pause mode. The chirping will stop once the alarm resets itself.



How do I know whether to buy photoelectric or ionization alarms?

Smoke alarms commonly use one of two different types of technology in detecting smoke: ionization or photoelectric.

Ionization-type smoke alarms have a small amount of radioactive material that ionizes the air between two electrically charged plates, causing a measurable current to flow between the plates. When smoke enters the chamber, it disrupts the flow of current, which activates the alarm.

Photoelectric-type smoke alarms aim a light source into a sensing chamber at an angle away from the sensor. Smoke entering the chamber reflects light onto the sensor, which triggers the alarm.

Ionization vs. photoelectric: Both ionization and photoelectric alarms are tested to the same product standard (CAN/ULC S531). Photoelectric alarms respond slightly faster to smouldering type fires; ionization alarms respond slightly faster to flaming type fires. Some manufacturers offer smoke alarms that use both sensor systems, for optimal protection.

It is often recommended that alarms installed near kitchens be photoelectric to minimize the incidence of nuisance alarms.

How can I find out about alarms for the hearing impaired?

Smoke alarms that employ high-decibel alarms and strobe lights are available for the deaf, deafened or the hard-of-hearing. Visit the Canadian Hearing Societys website at www.chs.ca for information about these smoke alarms.

Does my smoke alarm ever need to be replaced?

Like other appliances, smoke alarms wear out and become less effective over time. In addition, new technology and features are continually being integrated. The Ontario Fire Code (6.3.3.7(1)) requires that smoke alarms be replaced within the time frame indicated in the manufacturers instructions. This will usually be ten years.


http:www.chs.ca


Does my smoke alarm detect carbon monoxide?

Smoke alarms should not be confused with carbon monoxide alarms. Carbon monoxide alarms are designed to detect dangerous levels of carbon monoxide resulting from incomplete combustion from fuel burning appliances, such as gas-or oil-fired furnaces or wood burning stoves, or from carbon monoxide gas that may enter a home from an attached garage. Some manufacturers do offer alarms that detect both smoke and carbon monoxide. (An information sheet about carbon monoxide is included in the Program Resources section.)



Qs & As Smoke Alarm Requirements for Dwelling Units Under Section 2.13 of the Fire Code

Q1 What dwelling units are regulated bySection 2.13 of the Fire Code? Section 2.13 applies to all detached houses, semi-detached houses and row houses where each house is occupied as a dwelling unit. (A dwelling unit is defined by the Fire Code as meaning a suite operated as a housekeeping unit, used or intended to be used as a domicile by one or more persons and usually containing cooking, eating, living, sleeping and sanitary facilities.)

A seasonal home, such as a cabin or cottage, is also considered a dwelling unit for the purpose of this Section. Section 2.13 also captures any other dwelling unit that is not otherwise regulated by Retrofit, Part 9 of the Fire Code. For example, where a building contains a mixed use of occupancies and also contains one or two dwelling units, Section 2.13 would require the dwelling unit(s) to be provided with smoke alarms.

Part 9 regulates houses containing secondary apartment units and most multi-storey, multi-unit residential buildings. Smoke alarm requirements for these buildings are already contained in Part 9 of the Fire Code and Section 2.13 does not apply to these units.

Q2 Does Section 2.13 apply equally to dwelling units that are owneroccupied and rental units? Yes. Each dwelling unit is regulated regardless of the ownership arrangement.

Q3 Where are smoke alarms required to be locatedin each dwelling unit? A smoke alarm is required to be installed between each sleeping area and the remainder of the dwelling unit. Where the sleeping areas are served by hallways, the smoke alarms must be installed in the hallways.

In addition, at least one smoke alarm is required to be installed on each storey that does not contain a sleeping area.



Where a dwelling unit is of a split-level design, is a smoke alarm required on each separate level? Q4

No. A smoke alarm is not required on each level in a split-level dwelling unit because each level does not count as a separate storey.

To determine the number of storeys in a dwelling unit, and thus determine the number of smoke alarms required, it is necessary to first identify the first storey of the dwelling unit.

The Fire Code defines the first storey as meaning the storey with its floor closest to grade and having its ceiling more than 1.8 metres above grade.

Once the first storey has been identified, it is then possible to identify the basement. The Fire Code defines a basement as meaning a storey or storeys of a building located below the first storey. Similarly, once the first storey is identified, it is then possible to identify the second storey and, where applicable, the third storey.

As illustrated below, a storey can consist of more than one level. Only one smoke alarm is required to be installed in each storey (see note 1). However, when a dwelling unit contains multiple sleeping areas, a smoke alarm must be installed to protect each separate sleeping area. This may necessitate additional smoke alarms on some levels of a split-level home (see note 2). The following illustrated example of a split-level dwelling unit is provided for clarification.

Note 1: One smoke alarm required for each of the basement, first and second storeys.

Note 2: An additional smoke alarm is required on the lower level of the second storey due to sleeping rooms.


grade Lower basement

Upper basement

Lower 1st Storey

two-storey building

Upper 1st Storey

Lower 2nd Storey (with sleeping area)

Upper 2nd Storey (with sleeping area)

grade

1

1

1

2

= smoke alarm


Q5 When a storey includes two levels, where is the best place to install thesmoke alarm? It is best to install the smoke alarm in the higher ceiling area, as the smoke alarm will react quickest to smoke development in either area in this arrangement. As well, smoke alarms are best installed near the stairs that interconnect the levels or storeys. Always install the smoke alarms on the ceiling or on the upper portion of a wall in accordance with the manufacturers instructions.

Q6 Many homes have existing smoke alarms that are hardwired to anelectrical circuit. Where additional smoke alarms are installed, are these required to be hardwired as well? No. Any additional smoke alarms required by Section 2.13 of the Fire Code are permitted to be battery powered.

Q7 A dwelling unit has two existing smoke alarms that are hardwired to an electrical circuit and interconnected to each other. When one activates, the second smoke alarm also activates at the same time. If additional smoke alarms are being installed to comply with the Fire Code, do they

have to be electrically interconnected to the existing smoke alarms?

No. The additional smoke alarms may be battery powered and need not be inter-connected. Additional hardwired smoke alarms would also satisfy the requirements, whether or not they are interconnected. However, interconnected smoke alarms are a good idea for maximum protection.

Q8 Is it permissible to replace existing permanently hardwired individualsmoke alarms or electrically interconnected smoke alarms with battery powered smoke alarms? No. When smoke alarms are being replaced, the installation must not reduce the level of detection required by the Building Code in effect at the time of construction of the dwelling unit, or by municipal by-laws in effect before the Fire Code adopted this requirement. This requirement is contained in Sentence 6.3.3.7.(2) of the Fire Code. In other words, existing permanently wired individual smoke alarms or electrically interconnected smoke alarm installations must be maintained to provide the same level of protection as originally required. Any replacement smoke alarms must be of a type comparable to the original (or better).



Q9 Is a cellar, attic space or crawl space required to have a smoke alarminstalled under the changes to Section 2.13 of the Fire Code? A space without a finished floor is not considered a storey and therefore smoke alarms are not required.

Attic space is defined in the Fire Code as a space between the roof and the ceiling of the top storey (i.e. cavity within the roof space). As such, it is not designated as a storey and a smoke alarm is not required. However, an attic or roof space that has a floor and contains a living space or storage is no longer an attic space by definition. Such a space is considered a storey and a smoke alarm must be installed.

A crawl space is not defined in the Fire Code but generally refers to a cavity space located beneath the house or a portion of the house and typically has a very low overhead. A crawl space without a finished floor is not a storey and does not require a smoke alarm. Where a crawl space has a finished floor and is used for storage or contains an appliance, it is a storey and requires a smoke alarm. A crawl space that extends out from an adjoining basement does not require a separate smoke alarm since a smoke alarm is already required to protect the basement.

Cellar is defined in the Fire Code as a basement that is more than 50% below grade. A cellar, like a basement is considered a storey. A smoke alarm is required to be installed in a space that falls under the definition of a cellar.

Q10 Is it permissible to install additional smoke alarms beyond theminimum required in Section 2.13? Yes. The regulation does not prohibit the installation of additional smoke alarms beyond the minimum number that are required. In larger homes, in homes where there are room and ceiling configurations that may interfere with the movement of smoke, or in homes where people sleep with bedroom doors closed, it is recommended to install additional smoke alarms to enhance early detection of smoke and warning of fire.



Managing Nuisance Alarms Virtually everyone with a smoke alarm in their home has experienced a nuisance alarm, which is the accidental activation of the smoke alarm, generally due to cooking activities or steam from the shower. In some homesdepending upon the smoke alarms proximity to the bathroom or kitchen and the cooking practices of the occupantsnuisance alarms can be more than an occasional annoyance.

Unfortunately, the occupants response to nuisance alarms is often to remove the battery from the alarm, or shut off the circuit breaker. A quick glance at Ontarios fire loss statistics confirms that this is a very bad idea. A recent ten-year study of smoke alarm operation revealed that approximately half of all homes that experienced a reported fire had no smoke alarm warning. In fatal residential fires, approximately two-thirds had no smoke alarm warning. Clearly, disabling a smoke alarm is a dangerous practice that leaves the occupants extremely vulnerable to fire.

There are alternatives to managing nuisance alarms that do not diminish the fire protection level in the home. Fire departments can increase the number of working smoke alarms in homes in their communities by including information about the causes and solutions to nuisance alarms in their smoke alarm programs. A handout addressing nuisance alarms is included in the Resources section for this purpose.

Solutions to Nuisance Alarms

The most common cause of nuisance alarms is cooking in the oven, stove or toaster. The first step is to minimize the problem at the source by keeping ovens and burners clean, and by turning down the timer setting on toasters. Using the fan on the range hood when cooking can also help to remove combustion particles from the air. If this fails to produce the desired results, there are other solutions to consider.

Install Smoke Alarms with a Pause Feature

For anyone experiencing nuisance alarms, a smoke alarm with a pause or hush feature is a must. These alarms have a button which, when pressed, silences the unit for several minutes. The alarm will then re-set itself automatically. It is highly recommended that any new smoke alarms purchased include this feature.



Move the Smoke Alarm

Frequent nuisance alarms can sometimes be avoided by moving the alarm to a different location. If at all possible, residents should avoid having a smoke alarm in the cooking area. Moving an alarm from the kitchen to the hallway could solve the problem of nuisance alarms.

Another solution that can reduce the incidence of nuisance alarms is to move the smoke alarm from the ceiling to the wall. The alarm should be no less than 10 cm and no more that 30 cm from the ceiling and should not be installed near a corner. Refer to the manufacturers instructions for more information about the correct placement of smoke alarms.

Try Alternative Technology

Smoke alarms commonly use one of two different types of technology to detect smoke: ionization or photoelectric.

Ionization-type smoke alarms have a small amount of radioactive material that ionizes the air between two electrically charged plates, causing a measurable current to flow between the plates. When smoke enters the chamber, it disrupts the flow of current, which activates the alarm. Ionization alarms respond slightly faster to flaming-type fires.

Photoelectric-type smoke alarms aim a light source into a sensing chamber at an angle away from the sensor. Smoke entering the chamber reflects light onto the sensor, which triggers the alarm. Photoelectric alarms respond slightly faster to smoldering-type fires.

For smoke alarms located near the kitchen, replacing existing ionization units with photoelectric ones may help to reduce nuisance alarms.



Public Awareness A crucial component of any smoke alarm program is ensuring the public is aware of their responsibilities regarding smoke alarm requirements, installation and maintenance. Conducting door-to-door checks is one tried and true method, however keep in mind that it is labour- and time-intensive and can take a while to get around to every home in the community. Door-to-door programs are also generally conducted during specific times of the year, so the community is not benefiting from smoke alarm information all year long. One of the precepts of education and behaviour modification is continual reinforcementensuring the message is heard repeatedly and in different ways. In order to reach as many people in as short a time as possible, some of the following activities should become integral components of the program.

Use the Media

Local or regional media are definitely an effective way to publicize the events and activities associated with your smoke alarm program. The media can quickly reach vast numbers of people with very little effort or resources required on the part of the fire department.

Local or regional newspapers, radio, television and cable companies are usually willing to help the fire department promote programs and provide information to the public. Local media often welcome the opportunity to cooperatively develop events or contests that will enhance their programming as well as educate the public. Some methods of using the media to promote smoke alarm program activities include:

Public Service Announcements (PSAs): Smoke alarm PSAs (produced by the Office of the Fire Marshal, the Fire Marshals Public Fire Safety Council and SMARTRISK) for television, radio and print media can be downloaded from the OFM website: ontario.ca/firemarshal Local media will usually be responsive to a request from their fire department to use the PSAs whenever possible. PSAs can be used all year long, with special consideration being given during Fire Prevention Week, the high-risk holiday season and during smoke alarm campaigns. See the Resources section for more information about the PSAs.

Issue news releases or articles about incidents related to smoke alarms. Be prepared to issue news releases immediately following any major incidents. It may not be possible to release details about that particular fire, but public


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education messages about smoke alarms and other fire safety matters will have greater impact when linked to a specific event.

Inform the community about the smoke alarm program. If crews will be going door-to-door to conduct smoke alarm checks, make sure the residents in those areas are notified in advance. Be sure to let them know what they can expect when they open the door, so there are no surprises.

Publicize program results: Statistics obtained through the program can be provided to local media to reinforce smoke alarm awareness. For example, it could be noted that it is very alarming that there was a high percentage of homes without working smoke alarms among the properties visited.

Publicize charges/convictions: Often just the possibility of penalties is enough to motivate people to comply with the law. Providing information to the media about the number of tickets issued for smoke alarm violations can make people sit up and take notice. Any convictions resulting from violations of smoke alarm regulations can also be publicized in a news release.

Distribute Information Materials

Brochures, information cards and fact sheets can be distributed or made available to residents of the community all year long:

during door-to-door smoke alarm checks; in local and regional utility and tax bills; in local newspapers, community calendars and other community publications,

advertising circulars, etc.; at fire halls, libraries, arenas, mall displays, public information boards; through community and social agencies, clubs or other interested organizations; by scouts/guides groups, Meals on Wheels drivers, etc.; at participating retail establishments.

Deliver Fire Safety Presentations

Most fire departments are requested to deliver fire safety presentations by various groups in the community. Whether addressing seniors, adults or children, it is always appropriate to include smoke alarm and home escape planning information. A Powerpoint presentation and accompanying speakers notes are included on the Alarmed for Life! CD. Be sure to also have appropriate handouts available, targeted to the specific group.



Seek the Support of the Schools

Children can be great safety advocates and often have considerable influence over their parents and families. Included in the Program Resources section is a smoke alarm information sheetSmoke Alarms Save Lives!that can be sent home from schools with the kids. Teachers will greatly appreciate the fire department providing enough copies for the entire class. To add fun and incentive, consider offering a prize to the classroom that returns the most forms.

Deliver a Strong Message

Many departments have fire safety messages painted on their vans or cars. For example, Smoke Alarms Save Lives is a common phrase seen on many fire service vehicles. While this is certainly a true sentiment, its effectiveness may be diminishing due to over-exposure. Next time, try using a statement such as Install Working Smoke Alarms: Its the Law! Not only is it a call to action, its a good way of informing people about their responsibilities.

Include Home Fire Escape Planning

Every smoke alarm program should include information about home fire escape planning. Early warning is only effective if the occupants know what to do when the alarm sounds. Information about home escape planning is included in the Program Resources section.

Include Carbon Monoxide Awareness

The Ontario Fire Code requires carbon monoxide alarms adjacent to each sleeping area in homes with fuel-burning appliances or attached garages. An information sheet about carbon monoxide safety is included in the Program Resources section.



Compliance and Enforcement Strategies Education is a critical component of any smoke alarm program. Not only must homeowners be educated about smoke alarm types, placement, installation and maintenance, they must also be informed of the Fire Code requirements and the consequences for non-compliance. A well-planned, comprehensive, year-round smoke alarm awareness campaign can reach the vast majority of residents in the community and result in a high rate of voluntary compliance and enhanced safety.

That said, there will always be those who do not comply with the regulation. If there is to be any purpose to the Fire Code requirements, fire departments must be prepared to enforce them. It is important to recognize that the individual circumstances of each case must be taken into consideration. Every situation is different and the fire department is encouraged to exercise discretion and flexibility in their approach.

Compliance and enforcement strategies will differ from one department to another, depending upon the needs and circumstances of the community. What works well in one area may not be as effective in another. Any strategies selected should be passed by the legal advisors for the municipality before implementation.

Compliance Strategies

Door-to-Door Smoke Alarm Checks

Many fire departments incorporate some method of door-to-door checks in their smoke alarm programs. The following are the most common strategies currently being used by fire departments in Ontario. Fire departments can consider adopting any or all of these options, modify them to suit their community, or develop strategies of their own.

Provide a Loaner Smoke Alarm

Fire departments may consider providing loaner smoke alarms to ensure that the home is protected by a least one smoke alarm outside all sleeping areas. Alternatively, fire departments may want to provide a sufficient number of loaner smoke alarms to bring the home into full compliance with the requirements. A sample waiver is included in the Program Resources section for this purpose.



The homeowner must be reminded that the fire department is not responsible for providing smoke alarms or batteries and the loaner smoke alarm is an act of good faith on the understanding that the homeowner will promptly acquire and install their own smoke alarms and batteries as required to meet the regulation.

It must be clear to homeowners that loaner smoke alarms or batteries are only a temporary measure until the homeowner has complied with the regulation. A follow-up visit by the fire department should be scheduled to verify that smoke alarms and batteries have been properly installed and are working, and to pick-up the loaner smoke alarm. This may seem onerous and time consuming, however it delivers a strong message that compliance is the responsibility of the homeowner.

Sell Smoke Alarms or Batteries

Fire departments may choose to provide smoke alarms or batteries at cost to those homeowners found not to be in compliance with the regulation. This would serve to protect the home and its occupants, as well as reinforce the owners responsibility to comply with the regulation. By having a cost associated with the smoke alarm and batteries, homeowners will come to understand that the fire department is not assuming the responsibility for the homeowner in complying with the law.

Fire department operating guidelines should address the number of smoke alarms or batteries that the fire department will sell to an individual homeowner.

In cases where homeowners are responsible for providing additional smoke alarms to meet the regulation, follow-up will be required by the fire department to ensure that they meet their obligations.

Smoke Alarm Give-away Programs

Although the Fire Code has required smoke alarms in homes since 1998, many fire departments are still giving homeowners the impression that they are assuming responsibility for compliance by providing alarms free-of-charge. With the 2005 Fire Code amendment requiring smoke alarms on every storey, this will not only become an expensive practice, but could create a situation where homes are left with inadequate protection for a period of time. If the fire department announces to the community that it will be providing/installing smoke alarms, residents may choose to wait for the free alarms instead of immediately complying with the law. Depending upon the size of the community, it could take a considerable amount of time for the fire department to visit every home



with the requisite number of alarms. In the interim, many homes could be left with insufficient or no alarms.

If fire departments choose to provide homeowners with a sufficient number of smoke alarms to fully comply with the regulation, it must be made clear that it is the homeowners responsibility to maintain the alarms from that point on. Fire departments should take a zero-tolerance approach when dealing with residential dwelling units that do not comply with the Fire Code if documentation shows that they were previously in compliance. If these alarms are found to be missing or not working at a later date, a stronger enforcement tactic, such as ticketing, may be required to get through to negligent homeowners.

Fire Department Emergency Response

In many instances, fire crews responding to fire calls in residential dwellings can check to ensure the home is in compliance with the Fire Code smoke alarm requirements. Given that a fire has occurred, lives have been put at risk and therefore a warning to the homeowner may not be sufficient if the home is not in compliance with the requirements. Fire departments may choose to take a more direct approach and issue a ticket under Part I of the Provincial Offences Act * (POA) or lay an information under Part III of the POA and pursue a fine higher than that allowed for the ticket.

Enforcement Strategies for Homeowners

If a homeowner fails to install working smoke alarms in accordance with the regulation, a Certificate of Offence can be completed and an Offence Notice issued to the homeowner under Part I of the POA*, for a total payable fine of $360. Fire departments may choose to issue a ticket whenever a home is found to be non-compliant, or they can use it as a last resort if other strategies fail to produce the desired results. It is important to note that issuing a ticket does not relieve the homeowner of their responsibility to install and maintain working smoke alarms in accordance with the requirements of the Fire Code.

While the fire department is within its rights to issue tickets upon discovery of non-compliance with the smoke alarm regulation, this could have a negative impact on their ability to freely gain access to homes within the community. Fire departments should carefully consider and evaluate this issue before choosing this method.

This method of dealing with non-compliance must be accompanied by a strong educational component. Homeowners must be educated on the requirements and their responsibilities to comply with them. The ultimate goal is not prosecution, but compliance with the smoke alarm regulation.



Enforcement Strategies for Landlords

Fire departments should consider adopting a zero-tolerance approach when dealing with landlords who fail to meet their obligations with respect to providing and maintaining smoke alarms in their rental units.

Under a zero-tolerance approach, landlords who are found to be negligent in providing and maintaining smoke alarms for their rental dwelling units as determined through routine inspections or home inspection programs would be automatically ticketed, or charged by laying an information under the POA.

Fire departments may opt to proceed directly with charges under Part III of the POA by laying an information when there are multiple violations in the same building.

When it is determined through a fire department response to an actual fire that the landlord has not met his/her obligations, fire departments may choose to proceed directly to laying an information under Part III of the POA.

Fire departments should encourage landlords to maintain detailed records to demonstrate they have been diligent in meeting their obligations as outlined in the OFM technical guideline OFMTG041998, Maintenance of Smoke Alarms.

Enforcement Strategies for Tenants

Tenants in multi-unit rental accommodation who disable smoke alarms are not only putting themselves at risk, but also tenants in neighbouring units. Experience shows that removing batteries or otherwise tampering with smoke alarms is often a common response to nuisance alarms. If this is the case, it is important to educate the occupants about possible solutions to nuisance alarms that do not involve disabling the smoke alarms. See the section on Nuisance Alarms for further information.

Tenants who admit to removing batteries or otherwise disabling a smoke alarm can be served with an Offence Notice (ticket) for intentionally disabling the unit.

*Only members of a fire department who are designated as an Assistant to the Fire Marshal haveauthority to issue tickets under Part I of the Provincial Offences Act.


Inside Alarmed for Life! 2006 Planning for Success 1 Establish Goals and Outcomes 2 Select appropriate activities 3 Obtain Materials and Resources 4 Train the Program Team 5 Develop a Standard Operating Guideline 6 Monitor and evaluate

Smoke Alarms: The Basics Where should I install smoke alarms? What does it mean when my smoke alarm chirps? How often should I replace the battery? How do I know if I installed the battery correctly? How often should I test my smoke alarms? Do smoke alarms need to be cleaned? What does the pause feature on smoke alarms do? How do I know whether to buy photoelectric or ionization alarms? How can I find out about alarms for the hearing impaired? Does my smoke alarm ever need to be replaced? Does my smoke alarm detect carbon monoxide?

Qs & As Smoke Alarm Requirements for Dwelling Units Under Section 2.13 of the Fire Code Q1 What dwelling units are regulated by Section 2.13 of the Fire Code? Q2 Does Section 2.13 apply equally to dwelling units that are owner occupied and rental units? Q3 Where are smoke alarms required to be located in each dwelling unit? Where a dwelling unit is of a split-level design, is a smoke alarm required on each separate level? Q4 Q5 When a storey includes two levels, where is the best place to install the smoke alarm? Q6 Many homes have existing smoke alarms that are hardwired to an electrical circuit. Where additional smoke alarms are installed, are these required to be hardwired as well? Q7 A dwelling unit has two existing smoke alarms that are hardwired to an electrical circuit and interconnected to each other. When one activates, the second smoke alarm also activates at the same time. If additional smoke alarms are being installed to comply with the Fire Code, do they have to be electrically interconnected to the existing smoke alarms? Q8 Is it permissible to replace existing permanently hardwired individual smoke alarms or electrically interconnected smoke alarms with battery powered smoke alarms? Q9 Is a cellar, attic space or crawl space required to have a smoke alarm installed under the changes to Section 2.13 of the Fire Code? Q10 Is it permissible to install additional smoke alarms beyond the minimum required in Section 2.13?

Managing Nuisance Alarms Solutions to Nuisance Alarms

Public Awareness Use the Media Distribute Information Materials Deliver Fire Safety Presentations Seek the Support of the Schools Deliver a Strong Message Include Home Fire Escape Planning Include Carbon Monoxide Awareness

Compliance and Enforcement Strategies Compliance Strategies Fire Department Emergency Response Enforcement Strategies for Homeowners Enforcement Strategies for Landlords Enforcement Strategies for Tenants

Alarmed For Life! 2006 - mcscs.jus.gov.on.ca · Alarmed for Life! 2006 ... OFM advised fire...

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