Ajax Fire and Emergency Services (AFES) is reminding Ajax residents to join the Ontario-wide annual campaign by testing smoke alarms on September 28. The public-safety initiative, called Saved by the Beep, promotes working alarms and monthly testing.
Ajax Fire public educator Tania Pannunzio says working smoke alarms alert people to fire and provide time to escape. The department recommends checking alarms monthly, replacing batteries at least once a year or when the low-battery warning chirps, and replacing smoke alarms that are 10 years old or older.
Ajax Fire says Ontario lost 133 people to fires in 2022, the highest number in more than 20 years, and that many of those fires were found to have no working smoke alarms.
The town also notes that, as of January 2026, carbon monoxide alarms are required on every level of homes with fuel-burning appliances, fireplaces or an attached garage. Ajax Fire advises installing smoke and carbon monoxide alarms outside sleeping areas and on every level, and testing both types at least monthly.
The department says smoke alarm batteries should be replaced yearly or when a low-battery warning chirps; carbon monoxide alarms should be replaced according to manufacturer guidance, typically every five to seven years. Smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years. Building owners and landlords are responsible for installing and maintaining alarms, while tenants should report problems after testing. Residents can find local information at ajax.ca/fire or register at savedbythebeep.ca for monthly reminders. If an alarm sounds, get outside immediately and call 911.
Source: Town of Ajax — https://ajax.ca/news-notices/ajax-fire-and-emergency-services-challenges-ajax-to-be-saved-by-the-beep
