Montréal, 11 March 2016 - When you turn your clocks ahead to daylight saving time on the night of March 12 to 13, remember that it’s also time to check your smoke alarms and change the batteries, if necessary. It’s also a good time to visit someone dear to you and take a minute to talk about fire safety.

In 2015, fires claimed seven lives on Montréal Island. The average age of the victims was 75. Most of these tragedies were the result of small fires that occurred in the homes of seniors living on their own. 

You can help keep your home and your loved ones safe by reviewing some fire safety practices with them. And when you visit an elderly friend or relative, offer to check his or her smoke alarm. It won’t take long, but it could make all the difference.

Remember: Smoke alarms are required under by-law RCG – 12-003.

A shared responsibility!

• Property owners: You must install smoke alarms on each floor of the building and replace them at least every 10 years after the manufacturing date.
• Tenants and homeowners: You must keep your smoke alarms in good working order, including replacing the battery as necessary.

On Saturday, prevention officers from the Service de sécurité incendie de Montréal (SIM), along with students from the Académie des pompiers, the Institut de protection contre les incendies du Québec and Collège Montmorency, will be knocking on doors in several parts of the Montréal agglomeration to tell people about the importance of smoke alarms. If required, they’ll be handing out batteries and smoke alarms to people who need them.

Visit the SIM website for more information on fire safety and some practical tips and advice.