Why Owen Sound Fire might be knocking at your door

A smoke detector installed at a ceiling with smoke. (File image)

Starting May 15, the Owen Sound Fire Department will visit homes to promote fire safety awareness and educate residents.

Owen Sound fire officials are bringing back the annual Home Visitation Program, where firefighters will knock on doors in the northeast part of Owen Sound, starting in the afternoon until the early evening hours.

The firefighters will be dressed in Owen Sound Fire Department clothing and ask to enter homes to inspect fire alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.

“The Home Visitation Program allows our firefighters to meet residents where they are, share important safety information and support households in being prepared,” said Mayor Ian Boddy in a release shared by the city.

The fire department will also aim to educate residents on the importance of fire safety devices and fire emergency plans.

As of Jan. 1, 2026, fire codes in Ontario require carbon monoxide detectors on every storey of a residential home that has a fuel-burning appliance, fireplace, attached garage or heating supplied by a fuel-burning appliance located outside of the home.