Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors save lives. Yukon homes are legally required to have working smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Follow these installation and maintenance tips to ensure you meet building and fire codes.
Smoke alarms
The National Fire Code of Canada requires working smoke alarms on every level of the home and outside all sleeping areas.
Make sure you:
- install smoke alarms outside each bedroom and sleeping area and on each level of your home;
- follow the manufacturer’s instructions for testing. If you don’t have the instructions, test your alarms every month;
- follow the manufacturer’s instructions for changing the alarm batteries. If you don’t have the instructions, change the batteries twice a year;
- replace smoke alarms after 10 years, or as directed by the manufacturer. Some alarms have expiry dates marked on them;
- consider replacing hard-wired smoke alarms with combinations smoke and carbon monoxide alarms; and
- develop and practice a home fire escape plan with everyone in your household.
Carbon monoxide detectors
Yukon homes with an attached garage or fuel burning appliance are legally required to have carbon monoxide detectors.
Carbon monoxide is a gas that forms when you burn fuel. It is colourless, odourless and tasteless. It can can cause serious health problems or even be fatal.
Have a qualified technician install, maintain and inspect any fuel-burning appliances and their associated chimneys, flues and vents to ensure safe operation and prevent carbon monoxide buildup in your home.
For more information
- Health Canada - Household carbon monoxide detection and prevention
- Technical Safety BC - Know the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning