Good News Stories from the Brant Fire Department

Submitted Media Release

The County of Brant Fire Department would like to share and celebrate two great news stories that have recently occurred in our community.

“These stories remind us to ensure we have working CO and smoke alarms and to practice our emergency escape plans,” said Fire Chief Geoff Hayman, County of Brant Fire Department.

In May, the County of Brant Fire Department responded to a residence. Homeowners called for assistance after their carbon monoxide alarms sounded. Upon arrival, Fire crews noted high levels of carbon monoxide in the home. They eventually discovered this was due to a birds’ nest that was built in the chimney and the carbon monoxide could not properly vent outside. Thankfully, this family was safe as had they working CO alarms and took quick action to get help.

“Remember to check your carbon monoxide detectors. Make sure they are working. They may save you and your family’s life,” said Hayman. “Also, it is a perfect time to have all fuel-burning appliances inspected.”

In August, the County of Brant Fire Department received a call after a young child, who was playing outside, told his dad he could hear the neighbours’ smoke alarm. The child’s father called 911. When Fire crews arrived, they could see smoke and entered into the neighbours’ home. The Fire crews extinguished the fire. When the Fire Captain asked the child how he knew what to do, the child reported that Firemen had visited his school and he knew what the smoke alarm sounded like.

“This child is credited for saving his neighbours’ house,” said Hayman. “Thankfully, the home owners also had working smoke alarms. It is best to use interconnected smoke alarms. When one smoke alarm sounds, they all sound. If your smoke alarm has batteries, replace the batteries twice a year and test all smoke alarms at least once a month. Smoke alarms should be replaced when they are 10 years old.”

For more information about fire safety, visit www.brant.ca/Fire or contact Jeff, Doug and Tom, Fire Prevention Officers at 519.442.4500. We’re here for you!