London Firefighters say they’re encouraged to see the vast majority of residents seem to be getting the message when it comes to smoke alarms.
Since mid-May, members of the fire department have been going door-to-door through various neighbourhoods, and have met with over 3,000 residents to check their smoke alarms.
Firefighters distributed fire safety information and, if the residence required it, installed new smoke alarms and smoke alarm batteries.
“While it would be ideal if we found every occupancy fully protected, we are encouraged to see that we are getting closer to that goal. We’re carefully tracking information gained through the program and so far, we have found only about 10 per cent of homes are not adequately protected by smoke alarms,” said Deputy Chief of Fire Prevention Gary Bridge.
“Provincial data, compiled by the Ontario Fire Marshal, shows that between the years of 2009 and 2013, in homes where fires occurred, there were no smoke alarms in 18 per cent of them and a further 15 per cent had a smoke alarm, but did not operate.”
While the goal is for 100 per cent compliance, officials say they’re encouraged by what they’ve seen so far.
Door-to-door visits continue from 6:30 p.m. until 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, as well as Saturday and Sunday between 2:30 p.m. and 4 p.m.
Source: London Fire Department “Encouraged” During Smoke Alarm Blitz | (CFPL AM) AM 980
