Brighton Fire and Rescue has issued a warning after what has been described as unsettling reports about residents being coerced, pressured or frightened by individuals posing as fire safety professionals.
Other Northumberland-area services have issued similar notices recently about “home fire safety checks.”
“In these cases, homeowners were lured through a ‘free giveaway’ into providing their home address and contact information,” reads Brighton fire’s notice. “Shortly afterward, company representatives visited their homes and used scare tactics, including disturbing videos of fire fatalities and false claims about smoke alarms not working to (allegedly) pressure residents into purchasing expensive fire protection systems costing thousands of dollars.”
“We urge all residents to be cautious when approached by anyone offering unsolicited ‘home fire safety checks’ or attempting to sell fire safety equipment,” added Brighton fire officials.
Amid these reports and with hopes of helping area residents, staff are also providing some reminders and tips for the public.
Residents should know that Ontario law requires a working smoke alarm on every level of a home and outside all sleeping areas. Smoke alarms have to be replaced at least every 10 years or sooner if recommended by the manufacturer. Carbon monoxide alarms are also required near sleeping areas in homes with a fuel-burning appliance, fireplace or attached garage.
And while Brighton Fire and Rescue does do door-to-door smoke alarm campaigns from time to time, firefighters and staff are always in official Brighton uniforms and arrive in clearly-marked fire department vehicles, while also carrying Brighton Fire and Rescue identification, explained staff.
“At no point will they try to sell you products or pressure you into purchasing expensive fire protection systems beyond what is required under the Ontario Fire Code,” stressed staff.
Residents should be wary of anyone using fear or pressure to sell safety equipment – and shouldn’t provide personal or financial information ever to unknown individuals, reiterated officials, adding that any suspicious behaviour should also be reported to local authorities right away.
When in doubt and if someone at your home makes you uncomfortable, call police, a trusted friend or neighbour for support.
What’s more, for trusted, up-to-date fire safety information, you can always contact Brighton fire directly by visiting Station No. 1 at 20 Elizabeth St. between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday or contact the station at 613-475-0670 ext. 503 or via bfr@brighton.ca.
(Written by: Sarah Hyatt)
