Oct. 5, 2023 — From the City of Burlington
With Ontario fire fatalities on the rise and Fire Prevention Week starting next week (Oct. 8–14), the city is back with its “Sound On Save Lives” social sharing campaign and contest. As part of the Sound On Save Lives campaign, the Burlington Fire Department is asking everyone to ensure their sound is on by testing their home smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms and sharing the message for others to do the same.
Working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are not just suggestions – they are required by law. Specialty alarm devices that use lights and vibrations are available for those who are deaf or hard of hearing. This familiar campaign is a reminder to the whole community – test alarms, check expiry dates and practice your home escape plan. It could save your life.
Karen Roche, Burlington Fire Chief
Between today and Nov. 24, 2023, anyone who tags three friends on the city’s Instagram post using the hashtag #SoundOnBurlON could win one of several great prizes, including a Sonos Ray Sound Bar, JBL Flip 5 Waterproof Bluetooth Wireless Speaker, Beats Solo3 Wireless Headphones, fire safety kits and more. For contest details and full prize list, visit: burlington.ca/soundon. Winners will be contacted during the week of November 27, 2023.
In 2020, Burlington Fire Captain Ralph Baigent lost his friend in a house fire. A working smoke alarm could have given him early warning and time to escape. Fire Captain Baigent’s video plea is an important reminder to have working smoke and CO alarms. The purpose of the campaign is to encourage residents to talk to their friends, family and coworkers to make sure their alarms are working and haven’t expired. Sharing is easy; whether through social media, phone, text or in person.
Burlington Fire Department has an alarm assistance program for Burlington homeowners over 65, and/or persons with disabilities or limited mobility. The program includes annual alarm testing and battery replacement in homes with battery-operated alarm units. This is a free and voluntary assistance program offered by the fire department to eligible residents. Participating homeowners are responsible for ensuring their homes are compliant with Ontario laws. Details are available at burlington.ca/AAP.
We’re proud to be a sponsor of this important public safety campaign. As firefighters we see firsthand the loss in homes without installed or working smoke alarms. You don’t have to be a first responder to save lives. You can do that just by having discussions with your friends and family to make sure they have working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. We all have the power to protect each other
Dan Vanderlelie, President, Burlington Professional Firefighters Association and Platoon Chief
