Time to Change your Clocks and the Batteries in all Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms
Clocks "spring forward" one hour on Sunday, March 8.
Middlesex Centre Fire Services reminds residents to test and install new batteries in their smoke and carbon monoxide alarms when they change their clocks.
In order to survive a fire, you need to be provided with an early warning and know what to do when the smoke alarms sound.
New Rules for CO Alarms
Since 2014, Ontario law has required CO alarms outside all sleeping areas in homes with fuel-burning appliances, fireplaces, or attached garages. As of January 1, 2026, the rules have expanded to give residents even more protection.
If your home has a fuel-burning appliance (stove, furnace, etc.), fireplace, attached garage, or receives heated air from a fuel-burning appliance outside the home (like in a utility shed), you must install CO alarms:
- On every storey of your home
- On storeys with bedrooms, the alarm must be located in the hallway outside the bedroom
These rules also apply to multi-unit buildings and homes where residents need extra help during emergencies.