Emergency Services
Fire Prevention
Fire Prevention Tips
Smoke Alarms Are Not Optional
There have been residential fires in the Sahtu over the last few years in residences where occupants disabled the smoke alarm in such a way as to render it inoperative.
This is sometimes done by removing the battery, disconnecting the electrical wires to the unit, or covering the alarm with a plastic bag.
Note: Having a working smoke alarm in your home is not optional. It is the law.
Under the Northwest Territories Fire Prevention Act every home in the NWT is required to have working smoke alarms.
Homeowners must ensure that smoke alarms are installed between the living and sleeping areas. They are also required to maintain the smoke alarm in working order.
In rental accommodations, the obligation to install and maintain smoke alarms in operating condition falls to the landlord. The landlord must also provide smoke alarm maintenance information to the occupants of each unit.
It is an offence for any person to disable a smoke alarm. This requirement applies equally to homeowners, landlords and tenants.
Don't put you or your family at risk. Test your smoke alarm monthly, and maintain smoke alarms in working condition at all times.
Team up for Fire Safety With
Sparky Brochure (October 2002)
285 KB
Team up for Fire Safety Brochure (October 2002)309 KB