Brampton Fire Chief Urging Residents to Use Smoke Detectors After Three People Die in Fire

Brampton | Ontario | Latest News |

Published February 15, 2017 at 11:21 pm

Brampton’s Fire Chief is urging residents to make sure there are working smoke alarms on each floor of their homes and near all sleeping areas following a fire which killed three people.

Brampton’s Fire Chief is urging residents to make sure there are working smoke alarms on each floor of their homes and near all sleeping areas following a fire which killed three people.

“Many fatal fires occur at night when everyone is asleep, so early warning is crucial to survival,” said Fire Chief Michael Clark.  

It hasn’t yet been determined if there were working smoke alarms in Tuesday’s fatal fire at 78 Madison St.

Nonetheless, for added protection, “our fire department is recommending that you also install a smoke alarm in every bedroom,” Clark said. “Larger homes may require additional smoke alarms.”

Having a home fire escape plan is also recommended.

“We want to make sure these types of tragedies do not happen in Brampton,” said Clark.

Mayor Linda Jeffrey says “we have the tools to help prevent tragedies from happening.”

Here are some safety guidelines from the City of Brampton.

Simple smoke and carbon monoxide alarm tips:

  • Install smoke alarms on every storey and outside all sleeping areas of your home. For added protection, install a smoke alarm in every bedroom according to manufacturer’s recommendations.

  • Install carbon monoxide alarms outside all sleeping areas if your home has a fuel-burning appliance, fireplace or attached garage. For added protection, install a carbon monoxide alarm on every storey of your home according to manufacturer’s recommendations.

  • Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms monthly by pressing the test button.

  • Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms wear out over time. Replace alarms according to manufacturer’s recommendations.

Simple steps for home fire escape planning include:

  • Everyone should know two ways out of each room, if possible.

  • All exits must be unobstructed and easy to use.

  • If someone in your home has a disability, develop an escape plan with your household that takes into account their unique needs. Determine who will be responsible for helping young children, older adults and anyone who needs assistance to escape.

  • Choose a meeting place outside, such as a tree or a lamp post, where everyone can be accounted for.

  • Call the fire department from outside the home, from a cell phone or neighbour’s home.

  • Practice your home fire escape plan.

  • Once out, stay out. Never re-enter a burning building.

For residents living in apartment buildings who need assistance to escape:

  • Make sure you tell the superintendent or landlord if you need assistance.

  • Make sure your name is added to the persons who require assistance list in the fire safety plan, so the fire department knows which unit you are in.

  • Know the emergency procedures outlined in the building’s fire safety plan.

(Source: City of Brampton)

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