By 1808Delaware
This is Fire Prevention Week and this year, the Delaware Fire Department is championing an important theme: “Smoke alarms: Make them work for you.” The campaign emphasizes the life-saving role smoke alarms play in homes and aims to educate the public on maintaining these critical devices for maximum safety.
The Importance of Working Smoke Alarms
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that smoke alarms significantly reduce the risk of dying in a home fire by 54 percent. However, roughly three out of five home fire deaths occur in residences without working smoke alarms. The Delaware Fire Department is pushing to change this by promoting the proper installation and maintenance of smoke alarms in every household.
Lorraine Carli, NFPA’s vice president of outreach and advocacy, stated, “Smoke alarms serve as the first line of defense in a home fire, but they need to be working in order to protect people.” This year’s campaign aims to educate the community on ensuring that smoke alarms are correctly installed and maintained to serve their purpose effectively.
Delaware Fire Chief Tim Pyle echoed this message, stressing the importance of timely escape during a fire. “Working smoke alarms can make a life-saving difference in a home fire, giving people the time to get out safely,” Pyle said. He encouraged everyone to use Fire Prevention Week as a reminder to check their alarms and make any necessary updates.
Key Tips for Smoke Alarm Safety
To ensure that residents are protected, the Delaware Fire Department offers these essential guidelines for smoke alarm safety:
- Place Smoke Alarms Strategically: Install smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each separate sleeping area (such as hallways), and on every level of the home, including the basement.
- Consider Family Needs: Make sure smoke alarms meet the needs of all family members, particularly those with sensory or physical disabilities.
- Test Monthly: Test smoke alarms at least once a month by pressing the test button. This routine practice ensures that the alarms are in good working condition and can alert you in case of a fire.
- Replace Regularly: Replace all smoke alarms every 10 years. Over time, alarms can lose their sensitivity and effectiveness, so regular replacement is essential for reliable safety.
Supporting the 2024 Fire Prevention Week Theme
This Fire Prevention Week, Delaware residents are encouraged to follow the campaign’s guidelines to keep their homes as safe as possible. By taking these simple but critical steps, families can ensure that their smoke alarms are effective in providing crucial early warnings in the event of a fire.
For more information on fire prevention and safety, the Delaware Fire Department is available at 740-203-1300, or visit their website at www.delawareohio.net.
Source: City of Delaware
