National Fire Prevention Week™ (FPW™) is Oct 6-12, 2024. This year’s campaign, “Smoke alarms: make them work for you!™” emphasizes the importance of properly installed and maintained smoke alarms.
To make sure your smoke alarms are functional to help protect you and your family from fire hazards, follow three key safety tips:
- install smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each separate sleeping area (like hallways), and on each level of the home, including the basement
- test smoke alarms at least once a month by pushing the test button
- replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old or stop responding when tested – whichever comes first
For those with sensory or physical disabilities, consider installing bedside alert devices or using low-frequency alarms. Keeping pathways well-lit and free of clutter can also aid in safe evacuation in an emergency.
For more information, visit the NFPA website at www.nfpa.org/events/fire-prevention-week.
Know Your Alarm Sounds
- A continued set of three loud beeps means smoke or fire. Get out, call 911, and stay out.
- A continuous set of four loud beeps means carbon monoxide is present in the house. Get outside, call 911, and stay out.
- A single chirp every 30 or 60 seconds means the battery is low and must be replaced. If you replace the battery and it continues chirping, this means the alarm needs to be replaced.