FAQ
Fire Safety
Why is my smoke alarm chirping?
If the detector is chirping and no sign of fire or smoke is present, replace the battery as soon as possible. Without a working battery, a smoke detector can't do its job and the risk of dying in a fire increases greatly. Smoke detector batteries should be changed when you adjust your clock for daylight savings time in the Spring and Fall.
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Fire Safety
Do I need a carbon monoxide detector?
Yes! Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless gas that can be deadly. Every home should have at least one CO detector on each level, especially near sleeping areas. CO detectors should be installed if you have:Gas appliances (furnace, water heater, stove, dryer)Fireplace or wood-burning stoveAttached garageAny fuel-burning equipmentReplace CO...
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Fire Safety
How many smoke alarms do I need?
One smoke alarm isn’t enough! You should have at least one smoke alarm in every bedroom and in the hallway outside each bedroom. A typical three-bedroom home would need at least four properly installed smoke alarms to provide a reasonable amount of protection for your family. Smoke rises, so the...
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Fire Safety
How do I test my smoke alarm?
Each smoke alarm has a test button. Press the test button and hold it for a few seconds. If it is working correctly, the alarm will sound and will automatically stop when you release the button. Remember to test your smoke detector monthly and change the batteries at least once...
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Space Heaters Need Space
Space heaters are involved in roughly one-third of all home heating fires. Keep them at least three feet away from anything that can burn — furniture, curtains, bedding, and clothing. Always plug them directly into a wall outlet, never an extension cord, and turn them off when you leave the room or go to sleep.
Fire Extinguishers Have a Shelf Life
Most home fire extinguishers are good for 5 to 12 years, but they lose pressure over time. Check the gauge monthly to make sure it is in the green zone. If the needle is in the red or the extinguisher is expired, replace it. Remember the acronym PASS: Pull the pin, Aim at the base, Squeeze the handle, Sweep side to side.