Change the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms when you change your clocks this weekend

Cambridge, Ontario. (March 12, 2021) – On Sunday, March 14, 2021 at 2 a.m., we recognize Daylight Saving Time and move our clocks forward one hour. Cambridge Fire is also recommending that residents change the batteries in all smoke and carbon monoxide alarms inside their home.

“Working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms provide your best chance at survival in the event of a fire.” says Cambridge Fire Chief Brian Arnold. “In order for them to work properly, they need to have fresh batteries. Keep your family safe and replace your batteries when you change your clocks this weekend.

It’s the law in Ontario to have working smoke and carbon monoxide alarm alarms on every floor of the home and outside all sleeping areas. For added protection, it is recommended that alarms are also installed inside all bedrooms. It’s a good time to check the date on your alarms and make sure they haven’t expired.

Tampering with or dismantling your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms is against the law. Failure to comply with Ontario Fire Code requirements can result in a ticket of $360 or a fine of up to $50,000.

A home fire escape plan is also one of the most important things you can do with your family. By working on a home escape plan together, you and your family will know the safest way out of your home in the event of a fire.

Quick facts

• In 2020, Cambridge Fire responded to 51 residential fires

Additional Resources

For more information on fire and life safety, please visit: https://www.cambridge.ca/en/your-city/Fire-Department.aspx