Kitchener Fire launches OKTOBERTEST Fire Safety Campaign

Kitchener Fire, in partnership with Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest, is proud to present OKTOBERTEST, a month-long fire safety initiative launching today, October 1 to 31. The campaign encourages residents to “Test Your Smoke Alarm” and highlights the importance of working smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms.

By law, smoke alarms must be installed on every level of a home and outside all sleeping areas. These devices provide early warning in the event of a fire and save lives.

K-W Oktoberfest designed a special pin for OKTOBERTEST, featuring Onkel Hans testing his smoke alarm. There are a limited number of pins, and plenty of buttons and stickers to help residents get in the OKTOBERTEST spirit.

Throughout October, Kitchener Fire will promote this message at various community events with the help of Sniffy, a new character designed to engage both children and adults. Look for Sniffy at these upcoming events:

  • October 10 – Oktoberfest Opening Ceremonies, Willkommen Platz (200 King St. W.)

  • October 5 to 11 – Fire Prevention Week (follow us on social media for safety tips)

  • October 10 & 11 – KIDtoberfest, City Hall Rotunda (200 King St. W.)

Residents are reminded to test alarms monthly and replace batteries when adjusting clocks for daylight saving time on Sunday, November 2.

For more fire safety tips, visit Kitchener.ca/PublicEducation.

Land acknowledgement

The City of Kitchener is situated on the traditional territory of the Chonnonton, Anishinaabeg, and Haudenosaunee Peoples. We recognize our responsibility to act as stewards for the land and honour the original caretakers who came before us. Our community is enriched by the enduring knowledge and deep-rooted traditions of the diverse First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Peoples who live in Kitchener today.