CLEARFIELD – In the event of a fire, a smoke alarm can save your life and those of your loved ones. They are the single most important means of preventing house and apartment fire fatalities by providing an early warning signal — so you and your family can escape. Smoke alarms are one of the best safety features you can buy and install to protect yourself, your family and your home.
The Susquehanna Bureau of Fire would like to remind families to check existing smoke alarms regularly and for those without smoke alarms to install them. Smoke alarms should be installed on every floor of the home, including the basement. Since smoke and many deadly gases rise, place the smoke alarm either on the ceiling or 6 to 8 inches from the ceiling to allow for the earliest warning possible. The manufacturer always provides detailed instructions that should be followed. Visit your local hardware store to purchase your UL-listed smoke alarm. If you are unsure where to locate a smoke alarm, contact your local fire department for advice. Installing a smoke alarm is often as easy as self adhering the item to the wall or utilizing a screwdriver.
Once installed, smoke alarms are very easy to take care of. There are three steps to remember.
1. Simply replace the batteries at least once a year. Tip: Pick a holiday or your birthday and replace the batteries each year on that day. Some smoke alarms now on the market come with a ten-year battery. These alarms are designed to be replaced as a whole unit, thus avoiding the need for battery replacement. If your smoke alarm starts making a “chirping” noise, replace the batteries and reset it.
2. Keep them clean. Dust and debris can interfere with their operation,so vacuum over and around your smoke alarm regularly.
3. It’s important to test every smoke alarm monthly. And always use new batteries when replacing old ones.
Smoke alarms last about eight to 10 years, after which it should be replaced. Like most electrical devices, smoke alarms wear out.
The bureau recommends writing the purchase date with a marker on the inside of your unit. That way, you’ll know when to replace it. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for replacement.
