Check alarms and save a life

Published 8:43 am Monday, March 13, 2017

Nearly 5 million households in the United States still do not have a working smoke alarm, according to the National Fire Protection Association.

Three of every five home fire deaths every year result from fires in homes with no smoke alarms or no working alarms. In nearly one-quarter of home fire deaths, smoke alarms were present in the home but did not sound.

Statistics like these are stark reminders to us all regarding the importance of the life-saving importance of have at home smoke detectors that work properly. Checking household smoke alarms is a good habit to have, and this weekend’s time change is a great time to test the batteries in your household smoke alarm.

A properly installed and maintained smoke detector is the only thing in homes that can alert families to a fire 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Whether occupants are awake or asleep, a working smoke detector is constantly on alert, scanning the air for fire and smoke. Smoke alarms can also help save the lives of firefighters who would otherwise have to risk their lives by searching a burning home for residents.

The time change is also a good also a good opportunity for everyone to take these steps to make sure their household is prepared for emergencies.

n Install smoke detectors on every level of your home and outside every sleeping area. If a family member sleeps with the door closed, install one inside the sleeping area as well.

n Hallways longer than 30 feet should have a smoke detector at each end.

n Install smoke detectors at the top of each stairwell.

n Smoke detectors in kitchens should be kept away from cooking fumes or smoking areas.

n Install smoke detectors on walls at least 12 inches from the ceiling, not in a corner.

n Test and clean your smoke detectors on the first day of every month.

n Sweep them off every month. Too much dust will hinder operation.

n Most smoke detectors are battery operated. These batteries must be tested on a regular basis and, in most cases, should be replaced at least once or twice annually.

n Smoke detectors do not last forever. Check the manufacture/expiration date on the smoke detectors and replace as necessary. Replace any smoke detectors that are more than 10 years old.

n Replace batteries if the detector “chirps.”

n Never disable a smoke detector.

n Keep disaster supplies in an easy-to-carry bag to use at home or carry in case ordered to evacuate.

n Have all household members plan what steps they should take if an emergency occurs.

n Sign up for local emergency alerts via cellphone or email so you can be notified in the event of a disaster.

If you cannot afford a smoke alarm, there are options. Baldwin County Fire Rescue (BCFR) has a smoke detector installation program. The fire department recently teamed with the American Red Cross to canvass local neighborhoods to distribute free alarms, assist residents with installation and create awareness on the need for working smoke detectors and fire safety practices.

Staff will install free smoke detectors in residences that are in need of one. County residents are encouraged to visit Allen Memorial Drive station to fill out the paperwork. Call BCFR at 478-445-4421 or 478-445-4422. City residents can contact the Milledgeville Fire Department at 478-414-4030 with questions.

Daylight Saving Time begins at 2 a.m. Sunday. When you spring forward an hour, make sure to also test the batteries in your smoke alarms. The few additional minutes it takes to test the alarms just might save a life.