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Fire prevention equipment
You have a smoke alarm, but is it working properly? Did you know that certain situations require you to install a carbon monoxide detector? In case of a minor fire, do you know how to use a portable fire extinguisher?
Smoke alarm
The municipal regulations require that your home be equipped with a smoke alarm.
How to choose it?
All residential buildings built before 1985 must be replaced with smoke alarms that have a non-removable, long-life lithium battery lasting 10 years, replacing the older 9-volt battery models. These devices have an integrated battery system.
You can find these smoke alarms at your local hardware store or a big-box retailer. Their price is comparable to other types of alarms.
Was your home built before 1985 but equipped with electric smoke detectors? This building is not affected by the regulatory change. Residential buildings protected by hardwired smoke detectors connected to a private monitoring station are also exempt from this new regulation. However, floors that do not have a detector connected to a monitoring center must be equipped with long-life, non-removable lithium battery smoke alarms (10 years).
For more information about this regulatory change, refer to the SSIL brochure (PDF, 1 MB).
Also, check out the press release.
Did you know?
Firefighters regularly visit homes to check for the presence and compliance of smoke alarms.
Electrically wired smoke alarms
In buildings constructed after 1985, all smoke detectors must be electrically wired according to the Quebec Building Code. Some models require manual replacement of the backup battery. A light indicator shows whether it is operational.
Ionization smoke detector
This is the most common model. It detects flaming fires more quickly. Avoid installing it too close to the kitchen, bathroom, or heating appliances to prevent false alarms triggered by humidity or cooking smoke.
Photoelectric smoke detector
This model detects smoldering fires that produce a lot of smoke but may not have visible flames.
To maximize efficiency, smoke detectors should be installed in the right locations:
- On each floor of your home
- Near bedrooms
- On the ceiling, at least 50 cm from light fixtures and more than 4 inches from walls
Away from the kitchen and bathroom to prevent false alarms caused by toasters or steam.
Test your smoke alarm every month using these three steps:
- Press the test button.
- Blow out a candle near the device to create smoke.
- If the alarm sounds, your device is working. If not, replace it.
Important: Never paint a smoke alarm.
Good to Know: Smoke detectors can be safely disposed of in the trash but should not be placed in recycling or compost bins.
Carbon monoxide detector
You are required to install a carbon monoxide detector if:
- You have a fuel-burning appliance, such as a gas stove or fireplace.
- Your home has direct access to an indoor parking garage.
- The Quebec Building Code in effect at the time of construction requires it.
Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless, and non-irritating gas that can be deadly.
Sources of carbon monoxide in your home
LCO is released when fuel burns, such as wood, natural gas, propane, gasoline, or oil. It can come from:
- Chimneys
- Gas appliances (stoves, ovens, etc.)
- Heating systems and water heaters
- Vehicles and other fuel-powered machines like lawnmowers or snowblowers running in a garage
- Outdoor appliances used indoors, like space heaters or generators
If one of these appliances is defective, it may emit carbon monoxide, which can be fatal.
How to choose it?
Regardless of the power source, ensure your device is certified by a recognized organization like CSA or ULC.
How to install it?
These devices are available at hardware stores and big-box retailers. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation.
It is recommended to install your carbon monoxide detector near bedrooms to hear the alarm while sleeping.
Portable fire extinguisher
A portable fire extinguisher is useful for fighting small fires while waiting for firefighters. It is not mandatory in homes or apartments in Laval, but since it is easy to use, why not have one ?
There are several types of portable fire extinguishers. Here are some tips:
- Buy a certified extinguisher (e.g., ULC).
- Choose one that is at least 5 pounds (2 kg).
- Read the instructions to know where to install and how to use it.
- Select an extinguisher with AB and C ratings to handle. These devices can extinguish fires caused by three types of sources:
A. Solid fuels (wood, paper, fabric, etc.)
B. Flammable liquids (oil, grease, gasoline, etc.)
C. Electrical equipment (electrical panels, refrigerators, etc.)
In addition to following manufacturer instructions:
- Place it in a visible location near an exit.
- Keep it accessible but out of children’s reach.
- Avoid placing it too close to the stove or heating appliances.
- Keep the inspection label attached.
Ensure your fire extinguisher is always operational:
- Check the pressure gauge to ensure it is at the correct level.
- Have it inspected annually by a professional or maintain it yourself by shaking it to prevent the powder from settling.
- Single-use ABC extinguishers last about six years. Replace them when expired.
Rechargeable extinguishers require specific maintenance; refer to the user manual.
| Pressurized water | Carbon Dioxide | Gaz carbonique | |
| Maintenance | Annual | Annual | Annual |
| Refilling | Every 5 years | Every 6 years | Every 5 years |
| Integrity test by a specialized company | Aux 5 ans | Every 12 years | Every 5 years |
If you believe you are capable of using the fire extinguisher to fight a small fire, first make sure that 911 has been contacted and that the building’s occupants have been alerted, for example, by activating the fire alarm of the building you are in.
- Pull the pin on the fire extinguisher.
- Grab the hose and aim it at the base of the flames.
- Firmly press the control handle.
- Extinguish the fire by starting from a distance (at least 10 feet) while gradually moving closer to the flames.
- Sweep from left to right at the base of the flames, covering the entire width of the fire.
- Once the fire is under control, evacuate the house and wait for the firefighters to arrive.