From Dust to Danger: Why Renovations Mean Extra Alarm Care Your home is likely one of your biggest investments, and protecting it and the people inside starts with something as simple as fire safety equipment. In Ontario, the law requires working smoke alarms and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors in every home. Beyond the legal side, keeping these devices in good condition can prevent tragedy and ensure you don’t lose your beautiful renovations, or worse, your home, to something as preventable as outdated or poorly maintained alarms. Ontario regulations are straightforward. Every home must have a smoke alarm on every storey and outside all sleeping areas. If your home has fuel-burning appliances, a fireplace, or an attached garage, you must also have carbon monoxide alarms near sleeping areas. Landlords are responsible for installing these devices, while tenants must maintain them and report any issues. Failure to comply isn’t just a fineable offence; it could cost lives. It’s not enough to install and forget. Smoke and CO alarms should be tested at least once a month, with batteries replaced regularly. A helpful habit is to change batteries when the clocks change. This year, daylight saving time ends on Sunday, November 2nd, making it the perfect reminder to put in fresh batteries. If you have a 10-year sealed unit, the whole device should be replaced at the end of its lifespan. Most smoke alarms expire after ten years, while CO detectors typically need replacement after seven. Renovations pose another hidden risk. Dust from drywall, sawdust, or even a recent paint job can clog the sensors in your alarms, preventing them from working correctly. Once
the work is finished, take the time to gently vacuum or clean your alarms following the manufacturer’s instructions. After all, it would be heartbreaking to lose all your hard work and investment to a fire that your alarms couldn’t detect because of leftover construction dust. Don’t forget about fire extinguishers. While not legally required in Ontario homes, having at least one is strongly recommended— especially in kitchens or workshops where small fires are more likely to start. Check the pressure gauge annually, ensure it hasn’t expired, and replace or service it if necessary. Taking just a few minutes now to test, clean, and update your fire safety equipment offers peace of mind. Emergencies strike without warning, but when your alarms and extinguishers are ready, you’re protecting your home, your family, and everything you’ve worked hard to build.
DID YOU KNOW?
Janet VanMaanen Mortgage Specialist 226-577-8006 janet.vanmaanen@rbc.com
Founded in 1885 as Goodwin & Jennings Cabinetry, the company became Jennings Furniture after the original partnership dissolved. For more than a century, it carried that name until 2009, when Renée took ownership. With her leadership, the
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business evolved into Jennings Furniture & Design, reflecting a growing emphasis on custom design, exceptional quality, and the unique style of furniture that had become the company’s hallmark.
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