(STILLWATER, OKLAHOMA / Oct. 10, 2016) – This Fire Prevention Week, the Stillwater Fire Department is urging residents to update their smoke alarms as part of the National Fire Protection Association’s campaign to better educate the public about the critical importance of knowing how old their smoke alarms are and when to replace them.
A recent study conducted by the NFPA revealed that only a small percentage of people know how old their smoke alarms are, or how often they need to be replaced.
“I’ve seen the life-saving impact smoke alarms can have in a home fire, but I’ve also seen the tragedy that can result when smoke alarms aren’t working properly,” Deputy Fire Marshal Steve Sylvester said. “That’s why we’re making a concerted effort to educate Stillwater residents about the overall importance of smoke alarms, and that they do have a life limit.”
As part of the campaign, Stillwater Fire Department will showcase skits at Stillwater elementary schools and day cares Oct. 10 – 12 in support of Fire Prevention Week and this year’s campaign. The events will include FPW skits and truck show and tells.
According to the NFPA’s National Fire Alarm Code, smoke alarms should be replaced at least every 10 years, but because the public is generally unaware of this requirement, many homes have smoke alarms past their expiration date, putting people at an increased risk.
To find out how old your smoke alarm is and its expiration date, look on the back of the alarm. It should be replaced 10 years from the date of manufacture, not the date of purchase. SFD also recommends smoke alarms be tested monthly, and batteries should be replaced once a year or when they begin to chirp, signaling they’re running low.
For more information on smoke alarms or this year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign, go to www.firepreventionweek.org.
