As part of Fire Prevention Week this week, the Oil City Fire Department is urging all Venango County residents to check their smoke alarms and remember to replace them every 10 years.
A recent survey by the National Fire Protection Agency determined that only a small percentage of people know how old their smoke alarms are or how often they need to be replaced. This lack of awareness is a serious concern because smoke alarms don’t last forever, the agency says.
“Time and again, I’ve seen the lifesaving impact smoke alarms can have in a home fire, but I’ve also seen the tragedy that can result when smoke alarms aren’t working properly,” said Oil City fire chief Steve Hinds. “That’s why we’re making a concerted effort to educate residents about the overall importance of smoke alarms, and that they do have a life limit.”
The National Fire Alarm Code requires all smoke alarms to be replaced at least every 10 years, but because the public is generally unaware of this requirement, many homes may be at risk of having smoke alarms that have passed their expiration date.
As the official sponsor of Fire Prevention Week for more than 90 years, the National Fire Protection Agency is promoting this year’s campaign, “Don’t Wait – Check the Date! Replace Smoke Alarms Every 10 Years,” to better educate the public about the importance of knowing how old their alarms are and replacing them once they’re 10 years old.
People can find out how old their smoke alarm is and its expiration date by looking on the back of the alarm for its date of manufacture. The smoke alarm should be replaced 10 years from the manufacture date, not the date of purchase.
Smoke alarms should also be tested monthly, and batteries should be replaced once a year or when they begin to chirp, signaling that they’re running low.
Newer smoke detectors may already be equipped with lithium batteries. These detectors are designed to last at least 10 years, and there is no way to remove the battery.
Smoke alarm safety tips
Here are some smoke alarm safety tips from the Oil City Fire Department:
— Install smoke alarms inside and outside each bedroom and sleeping area. Install alarms on every level of the home. Install alarms in the basement.
— Large homes may need extra smoke alarms.
— Test all smoke alarms at least once a month. Press the test button to be sure the alarm is working.
— A smoke alarm should be on the ceiling or high on a wall. Keep smoke alarms away from the kitchen to reduce false alarms. They should be at least 10 feet (3 meters) from the stove.
— People that are deaf or have impaired hearing can use special alarms. These alarms have strobe lights and bed shakers.
— Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10-years-old.
— Smoke alarms are an important part of a home fire escape plan.
— Make sure everyone in the home knows the sound of the smoke alarm and understands what to do when they hear it.
— If the smoke alarm sounds, get outside and stay outside. Go to your outside meeting place.
— Call the fire department from outside the home.
