Don’t forget to change the batteries in your smoke alarms and other fire safety tips…
This in via e-mail from the Greater Toledo Area Chapter of the American Red Cross:
The Greater Toledo Area Chapter of the American Red Cross encourages you to change the batteries in smoke alarms at the same time you change your clocks this weekend. It is a proven fact that properly installed and working smoke detectors save lives. Take these simple steps to double your chances of surviving a house fire.
Check Your Smoke Alarm Batteries
Change your batteries at least once each year. Replace old batteries with fresh, high-quality batteries to keep your smoke alarms ready to protect you all year long.
Check Your Smoke Alarms
After inserting fresh batteries in your smoke alarm, make sure the alarm is working by activating the safety test button. It is recommended that you test your smoke alarms at least once a month. If you have any doubt regarding the working condition of a smoke alarm, replace it.
Count Your Smoke Alarms
You should have properly functioning smoke alarms in every sleeping room and in the hallway directly adjacent to those rooms. If sleeping rooms are on an upper level, a smoke alarm should also be installed in the center of the ceiling directly above the interior stairway.
It’s best to have at least one working smoke alarm on every level of your home, including the basement and family room. To assure optimal protection and avoid false alarms, your smoke alarm must be mounted properly. You’ll find simple instructions included with every smoke alarm you purchase. Should questions remain, visit or contact your neighborhood fire station.
Clean Your Smoke Alarms
Help your smoke alarm remain sensitive and ready to protect you by gently using a vacuum cleaner once a month to remove dust and cobwebs. If your smoke alarms have been accidentally painted or contaminated, replacement may be necessary.
Retire Your Old Smoke Alarms
Smoke alarms work every minute of every day. After millions of sensing cycles, they should be retired. Replace your smoke alarms with new devices every 10 years.
Visit www.redcrosstoledo.org for more information on how to prevent and prepare for a home fire.
lisa, that is so nice of you to remind the folks about this and dont forget to fall back this saturday before going to bed
October 27th, 2009 at 5:21 pm