(This article was submitted by Fire Marshal Bobby Doyle.)
This year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign theme is “Don’t Wait – Check the Date! Replace Smoke Alarms Every 10 Years.”
Having smoke alarms in your home is very important. Smoke alarms let you know there is a fire. Working smoke alarms also give you time to get outside and stay outside if there is a fire.
A National Fire Protection Association survey data shows that the public has many misconceptions about smoke alarms, which may put them at increased risk in the event of a home fire. For example, only a small percentage of people know how old their smoke alarms are, or how often they need to be replaced. Remember, smoke alarms do not last forever.
As a result of those and related findings the Fire Marshal’s Office is addressing smoke alarm replacement this year with a focus on these key messages:
—Smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years.
—Make sure you know how old all the smoke alarms are in your home.
—To find out how old a smoke alarm is, look at the date of manufacture on the back of the alarm; the alarm should be replaced 10 years from that date.
—An occasional “chirp or a beep” means that the battery is in need of replacement.
—This is also a good time to change the batteries and push the test button on all smoke alarms, and make sure they are working.
We also want you to think about an important way to move fire safety forward. There has been a noticeable increase in fires related to smoking and cooking, and the fire department wants you to keep certain important information and safety tips in mind when engaging in either activity.
Smoking materials are the number one cause of fire deaths. Whether you smoke, or have guests who smoke, take the following simple steps to reduce the risk of a smoking-related fire:
—Smoke outside because furniture, bedding and papers inside the home can catch fire from burning cigarettes.
—Keep a sturdy ashtray or bucket of sand handy for smokers.
—Smoke only when you are alert. If you take medicine or get sleepy, don’t smoke.
—Never smoke near anyone who uses medical oxygen. If a fire starts, the oxygen will cause it to burn hotter and faster. There is no safe way to smoke when oxygen is in use.
Cooking is the number one cause of home fires and home injuries. Be on alert! If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol don’t use the stove or stovetop. Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, or broiling food. If you leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, turn off the stove.
If you are simmering, baking, roasting, or boiling food, check it regularly, remain in the home while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.
