Albemarle County Fire Rescue is encouraging all residents to replace their smoke alarm batteries and check their alarms on Sunday, November 2nd, when clocks are turned back to end Daylight Savings Time. Taking part of the “extra hour” to check smoke alarms can have lifesaving consequences. United States Fire Administration (USFA) data indicates that an operating smoke alarm could reduce the risk of dying in a house fire by 50 percent.
USFA statistics show that three out of five home fire deaths result from fires in properties without working smoke alarms.
The Department of Fire Rescue offers these additional fire safety tips:
- Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, especially near bedrooms;
- Test all smoke alarms monthly;
- Keep smoke alarms clean by vacuuming over and around them regularly;
- As with any appliance, smoke alarms wear out. Replace the entire unit after 10 years or as recommended by the manufacturer;
- Make sure you know the location of your local fire station, rescue squad, police station, and hospital;
- Post a list of emergency numbers near all telephones;
- Organize and practice a family fire drill.
If you cannot afford a smoke alarm, or need assistance with installing one, please call Albemarle County Department of Fire Rescue at 434-296-5833.
More information can be found at www.ACFireRescue.org and at http://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/outreach/smoke_alarms.html.
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