Email icon Back to Search

As Fire Prevention Week™ approaches, the Kitchener Fire Department reminds residents to “Learn the Sounds of Fire Safety™” 

The Kitchener Fire Department is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®)—the official sponsor of Fire Prevention Week for more than 90 years—to promote this year’s Fire Prevention Week TM campaign, “Learn the Sounds of Fire Safety TM.” This year’s campaign, October 3-9, works to educate everyone about simple but important actions they can take to keep themselves and those around them safe.   

“What do the sounds mean? Is there a beep or a chirp coming out of your smoke or carbon monoxide alarm? Knowing the difference can save you, your home, and your family,” said Lorraine Carli, vice-president of outreach and advocacy at National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).  

“Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms save lives and are often the first indication of danger,” said Tom O’Hara, public education officer for the Kitchener Fire Department. “Making sure the alarms where you live are working properly is very important and so is understanding the sounds of the alarms and how to respond.” 

To learn the sounds of your specific smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms, check the manufacturer instructions that came in the box, or search the brand and model online. 

Tips to help you “Learn the Sounds of Fire Safety” from The Kitchener Fire Department 

  • A continuous set of loud beeps means smoke or fire. Get out, call 9-1-1, and stay out.
  • A single chirp every 30 or 60 seconds means the battery is low and must be changed.
  • Chirping that continues after the battery has been replaced means the alarm is at the end of its life and the unit must be replaced.
  • All smoke alarms should be replaced after 10 years (see manufacturer's directions).
  • Make sure your smoke and CO alarms meet the needs of all your family members, including those with sensory or physical disabilities.

To learn more about fire safety in our area, visit KitchenerFire.ca. 

For more general information about Fire Prevention Week and fire prevention in general, visit www.fpw.org

For more information:  

Shawn Falcao,     
Manager, Corporate Communications    
City of Kitchener    
shawn.falcao@kitchener.ca     

Tom O’Hara 
Public Education Officer 
Kitchener Fire Department 
Tom.OHara@kitchener.ca