Fire Prevention Week is October 9 to 15 and the province’s fire marshal reminds Islanders to replace their smoke alarms every 10 years.
“Working smoke alarms save lives, but most people don’t realize they need to replace their smoke alarm if it is more than 10 years old,” said provincial Fire Marshal David Rossiter. “When the smoke alarm sounds, everyone in the home must get out and stay out, and then call 911 from a cellphone or a neighbor’s phone.”
The fire marshal shared the following tips on checking the age of smoke alarms:
1. Remove the smoke alarm from the wall or ceiling.
2. Look at the back of the alarm for the date of manufacture.
3. If the alarm was manufactured more than 10 years ago, replace it.
4. If the alarm is less than 10 years old, put the alarm back on the ceiling or wall.
Working smoke alarms should be installed in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of the home including the basement. Test smoke alarms at least once a month by pushing the test button.
For more information on Fire Prevention Week and this year’s theme “Don’t Wait – Check the Date! Replace smoke alarms every 10 years” visit http://www.nfpa.org/public-education/campaigns/fire-prevention-week