Are your smoke detectors working?

Two fires in less than 24 hours have prompted an urgent message from emergency workers in the region.

Seven people have been taken to hospital after separate fires in St Catharines and in Hamilton. At this time of year when wood stoves, candles and Christmas lights increase the risk of fire, St Catharines fire chief Mark Mehlenbacher says working smoke detectors are especially vital.

Fire safety officers urge that you check your smoke detectors immediately, and change the batteries if they don’t work. If you don’t have smoke detectors in your home, get them immediately.

The fire department will actually help you to determine where they should go, and whether they will work properly, in an emergency. Just call the non-emergency number of your fire service, and ask for the fire safety officer.

Video: Scot Urquhart reports: