With the pending time change, the Westbrook Fire and Rescue Department recommends residents replace the batteries in their smoke alarms the same day they change their clock.
Two recent residential fires highlight the need for properly working smoke detectors not only in/near sleeping rooms, but in basements as well. Early detection of a fire offers the greatest chance of survival, and the least amount of damage. To help residents, we offer the following smoke detector safety tips:
Mount the smoke alarms on ceilings or high on walls – remember, smoke rises. Ceiling-mounted alarms should be installed at least four inches away from the nearest wall; wall-mounted alarms should be installed at least four inches, but not more than 12 inches away from the ceiling. On vaulted ceilings, be sure to mount the alarm at the highest point of the ceiling.
Replace your smoke alarms once every 10 years.
Regularly vacuuming or dusting your smoke alarm following manufacturer’s instructions can help keep it working properly.
Test smoke alarms at least once a month by using the alarm’s “test button” or an approved smoke substitute, and clean the units in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
NFPA recommends that people who have hearing impairments install smoke alarms with strobe lights to alert them to a fire.
Be sure that the smoke alarm you buy carries the label of an independent testing lab. For a list of manufacturers that distribute smoke alarms for the hearing impaired, please call NFPA’s Center for High-Risk Outreach at 617-984-7826.
Alarms that are hard-wired to the home’s electrical system should be installed by a qualified electrician.
Questions about smoke alarms can be directed to Fire Inspector Lt. Chuck Jarrett at 854-0656.
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