The Importance Of Smoke Alarms- Facts and Info
Smoke alarms should be routinely replaced and checked to ensure the safety of your home and its residents. An estimated 890 lives could be saved each year if homes had working smoke alarms (redcross.org). Ensure your loved ones are protected by following these smoke alarm maintenance steps.
- Place a smoke alarm on every level of your home and outside sleeping areas. If you keep the bedroom doors shut, place a smoke alarm inside bedrooms.
- Smoke alarms should be tested monthly and batteries replaced yearly, or as soon as you hear a “low battery” warning, which commonly sounds like a “chirping” noise.
- Teach children what smoke alarms sound like and what to do in the event that the smoke alarm sounds.
- Keep smoke alarms clean by vacuuming over and around it regularly. Dust and debris can interfere with it’s operation.
- Install smoke alarms away from windows, doors, or ducts that could interfere with their operation.
- Plan regular fire drills to practice your escape plan ensuring everyone in the home knows exactly what to do in the event of the smoke alarm sounding.
- Replace your alarm every 10 years.
Paying your smoke alarms attention as well as planning a “Family Fire Escape Plan” can be lifesaving. Routine smoke alarm checks can make the difference between disaster and safety.
Stay safe everyone,
HRC Insurance
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