Fire Prevention Week : October 3-9 , 2021
Learn the Sounds of Fire Safety
ACTION # 1
Make the first Saturday of each month “ Smoke Alarm Saturday ”!
A working smoke alarm will clue you in that there is a fire and you need to escape . Fire moves fast . You and your family could have only minutes to get out safely once the smoke alarm sounds .
• Smoke alarms should be installed in every sleeping room , outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home , including the basement .
• Test all of your smoke alarms by pushing the test button . If it makes a loud beep , beep , beep sound , you know it ’ s working . If there is no sound or the sound is low , it ’ s time to replace the battery .
• If the smoke alarm is older than 10 years old , you need to replace the whole unit .
• If your smoke alarm makes a “ chirp ,” that means it needs a new battery . Change the battery right away .
• Make sure everyone in the home knows the sound of the alarm and what to do when it sounds . ( See ACTION # 2 .)
ACTION # 2
Develop a home fire escape plan and practice it at least twice a year !
Having a home fire escape plan will make sure everyone knows what to do when the smoke alarm sounds so they can get out safely .
• Draw a map of your home , marking two ways out of each room , including windows and doors .
• Children , older adults and people with disabilities may need assistance to wake up and get out . Make sure they are part of the plan .
• Make sure all escape routes are clear and that doors and windows open easily .
• Pick an outside meeting place ( something permanent like a neighbor ’ s house , a light post , mailbox , or stop sign ) that is a safe distance in front of your home where everyone can meet .
• Everyone in the home should know the fire department ’ s emergency number and how to call once they are safely outside .
• Practice ! Practice ! Practice ! Practice day and nighttime home fire drills . Share your home escape plans with overnight guests .
REMEMBER :
When You Hear a Beep , Get On Your Feet ! Get out and stay out . Call 9-1-1 from your outside meeting place .
Hear a Chirp , Make a Change !
A chirping alarm needs attention . Replace the batteries or the entire alarm if it is more than 10 years old . If you don ’ t remember how old it is , replace it .
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