Test Your Smoke Alarm Day is observed annually on September 28. The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) and the Office of the Fire Marshal (OFM) are encouraging all NWT residents to take a minute on this day to ensure that working smoke alarms are installed in their homes.

Testing your smoke alarm takes less than a minute, but it could save your life.

New for 2026: Renting and Living on Your Own

This year's campaign highlights the importance of fire safety for people who rent or live independently, reminding residents to make smoke alarm testing part of their regular routine.

Whether you own your home, rent an apartment, live with roommates, or are living on your own for the first time, working smoke alarms are your first line of defense against fires. They provide the early warning needed to escape safely when every second counts.

Quick Facts:

• Smoke alarms are required on every level of the home and outside sleeping areas.
  • For added protection, install smoke alarms in each sleeping room as required in the 2020 National Building Code.
• Smoke alarms should be tested monthly with batteries changed at least once a year.
• Smoke alarms with non-replaceable (long-life) batteries are designed to remain effective for up to 10 years. 
• All smoke alarms should be replaced after 10 years of service.
• Carbon monoxide (CO) alarms are required in homes with a fuel-burning appliance or an attached garage.
  • Where a fuel burning appliance is installed in a suite of residential occupancy, a CO alarm shall be installed inside each bedroom, or outside each bedroom within 5m of each bedroom door.
  • Where a fuel burning appliance is installed in a service room, a CO alarm shall be installed in the service room, and inside or outside bedrooms as outlined above.
  • CO alarms shall be inspected, tested and maintained in conformance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Renters must notify their landlord as soon as they become aware that a smoke or CO alarm is either missing, disconnected, or not operating.

The OFM is asking all NWT residents to test their smoke alarms today, by simply pressing the button to make sure you HEAR THE BEEP.

For more information, visit:

• gnwt.ca/public-safety-and-emergency-response/emergency-preparedness/test-your-smoke-alarm-day
• www.maca.gov.nt.ca/en/services/test-your-smoke-alarm-da
• www.savedbythebeep.ca

For media requests, please contact:
Peter Tah
Manager, Public Affairs and Communications
Department of Municipal and Community Affairs
Government of the Northwest Territories
Peter_Tah@gov.nt.ca
867-767-9162 ext. 21012