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Ajax Fire and Emergency Services (AFES) is reminding all Ajax residents to join the Ontario-wide annual campaign by testing their smoke alarms on September 28. “Saved by the Beep” is a public safety initiative that promotes awareness about the importance of having working smoke alarms and testing them every month.

Working smoke alarms will help keep residents safe in the event of a fire. On September 28, marked as Test Your Smoke Alarm Day, take a minute to test smoke alarms to ensure they are working properly.

QUOTE

“Only working smoke alarms will alert you and your loved ones to a fire and provide enough time to escape safely. Keep your family safe by checking your smoke alarms monthly to ensure they are working, replacing the batteries every year or whenever the low-battery warning chirps, and replacing any smoke alarms that are 10 years old or older.” – Tania Pannunzio, Public Educator, Ajax Fire and Emergency Services, Town of Ajax

QUICK FACTS

  • In 2022, Ontario lost 133 people to deadly fires – the highest in over 20 years. Many of these fires were found to have no working smoke alarms.
  • As of January 2026, requirements for Carbon Monoxide (CO) alarms have changed to be required by law on every level, in homes with fuel-burning appliances, fireplaces or attached garages.
  • Install smoke alarms and CO alarms outside sleeping areas, and on every level of the home.
  • Test all smoke and CO alarms at least once a month.
  • Replace batteries at least once a year, or sooner if the low-battery warning chirps.
  • Replace smoke alarms every 10 years and CO alarms according to manufacturer guidelines (typically 5–7 years). Existing alarm type must be maintained.
  • Keep your smoke alarms clean by using the soft brush attachment on your vacuum to remove dust and cobwebs.
  • Never ignore a sounding alarm — get outside immediately and call 911.
  • Residents/Tenants: Building owners and landlords are responsible for ensuring alarms are installed and maintained; tenants must report any issues with alarms after testing to their landlord.
  • Residents can register through the saved by the beep website to take the pledge and receive monthly reminders to test their smoke alarms.

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