Montréal, 10 March 2017 - On the night of March 11 to March 12, it's time to move your clock ahead, check if your smoke detectors are in good working condition, and replace the batteries, if necessary.

In 2016, 11 people died due to a fire on the Island of Montréal. Prevent deaths and ensure the safety of your household by knowing what to do in case of fire. If you visit a family member, why not volunteer and check the smoke detector batteries. This could save lives.

The SIM would like to remind you that a working smoke detector is required in your home, in accordance with the By-law concerning the Service de sécurité incendie de Montréal.

Shared responsibility

Property owners must install smoke detectors on each floor of a housing unit and replace them no later than 10 years following the manufacturing date.

Occupants must ensure the maintenance of smoke detectors and replace the batteries.

On Saturday, SIM prevention officers and students from the Académie des pompiers will be out in force in several areas of the Montréal urban agglomeration, to raise awareness of the importance of having a smoke detector. They will be inspecting smoke detectors, giving out information, as well as batteries and smoke detectors to the public.

Learn more about smoke detectors and fire-prevention tips on the SIM website