London firefighters launch 2026 ‘Sound the Alarm’ campaign with focus on student rentals

Firefighters are seen outside Station 4 in London, Ont. on May 14, 2026. (Reta Ismail/CTV News London)

The London Fire Department is launching its 2026 ‘Sound the Alarm, Stay Fire Safe’ campaign, with firefighters set to begin going door-to-door next week checking smoke and carbon monoxide alarms across the city.

Deputy Chief Gary Bridge said crews will start visiting homes Tuesday to inspect alarms, share fire prevention information and answer questions from homeowners and tenants.

Bridge said firefighters visited approximately 15,000 homes during last year’s campaign and found many properties without working smoke alarms.

He said a particular concern was found in student housing near Fanshawe College, which will be a major focus of this year’s campaign.

“What we’re seeing with student rentals is a number of smoke alarms that did not have a battery in them,” Bridge said, adding that batteries are sometimes removed from smoke alarms to power other household devices, such as remote controls.

“And that’s the reason we’re targeting student rentals this year,” he said.

Under Ontario law, homes are required to have working smoke alarms on every level and outside all sleeping areas.

Bridge added homes with fuel-burning appliances, including gas water heaters, fireplaces or attached garages, must also have carbon monoxide alarms installed on every level of the home.

The department is encouraging residents to check alarms regularly and replace batteries as needed to help prevent tragedy.