Fire Prevention event in Oakville to focus on importance of smoke alarms

Smoke alarms save lives. The proof is in the numbers.

In 2023 in Ontario, the total number of fatal fires in 2023 increased to 109. That’s basically a fire-related death every three days.

According to the Ontario Deputy Fire Marshal’s office, most fatal fires between 2012 and 2021 had no working smoke alarms or evidence of any smoke alarms.

The lack of smoke detectors has been blamed for the increase in fire deaths and that is why the theme of this year’s national Fire Prevention Week, being held Oct. 6 to 12, is “Smoke Alarms: Make Them Work For You™,” which aims to educate the public about the importance of working smoke alarms.

The importance of having a working smoke alarm will also be a central theme during the Oakville Fire department’s Fire Prevention Week kick-off event being held Saturday, September 21, 2024.

The annual event runs from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Oakville Fire training campus at 1144 South Service Road West. Attendance is free and registration is not required.

“Learning about smoke alarm installation and testing is key to fire safety —we know that fire prevention can save lives,” said Oakville Fire Chief Paul Boissonneault. “Join our event where fire crews will share valuable fire safety information to keep you and your families safe and be sure to participate in Test Your Smoke Alarm Day where a small action can improve our community’s resilience.”

This year’s informative and fun event includes exciting rescue demonstrations, the junior firefighter challenge and other activities including a visit from Sparky the Fire Dog, inflatable air rides, a smoke room simulator, the junior firefighter water squirt, and fire safety games.

“Come ignite your awareness of fire safety at our Fire Prevention Week Kickoff on September 21 —where fun meets fire safety in a dynamic day of activities that will not only entertain but empower everyone to prevent fires in their own home,” said Oakville Mayor Rob Burton.

Also at the kickoff event, Oakville residents will also be able to learn about Ontario’s Test Your Smoke Alarm Day on Saturday, September 28, 2024.

The public across the province will be encouraged to test their smoke alarms using the test button to make sure everyone in the home recognizes the sound of the smoke alarm and knows how to respond.

The kickoff is being sponsored McDonalds Restaurants Dorval Crossing, which will provide free hot dogs. Funding support is also being provided by RioCan Oakville Place, and Oakville Parent-Child Centre.

Residents are advised to bring a refillable water bottle to use at water stations throughout the location.

Free parking and shuttle bus service, provided by Oakville Transit, will be available at the Bronte GO. The last shuttle will leave the Bronte GO at 2:45 p.m.

Parking at the training campus is reserved for people with limited mobility or medical conditions. Parking enforcement for South Service Road will also be in effect so residents are encouraged to access the free parking and shuttle service.

Service animals are welcome, while pets are asked to please stay home.