via PA Office of the State Fire Commissioner
As we turn back our clocks this weekend, the Shapiro Administration is reminding Pennsylvanians to change the batteries in their smoke alarms and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms. Working smoke alarms can decrease the risk of dying in a home fire by as much as half.
“Smoke alarms are the first line of defense in a home fire, giving families the precious seconds they need to escape safely,” said Pennsylvania State Fire Commissioner Thomas Cook. “Making sure you have working smoke alarms on every level of your home and testing them regularly is one of the simplest, most effective steps you can take to protect your loved ones should a fire occur.”
Once a fire starts, you may have fewer than two minutes to safely exit, which is why early notification is so crucial. Once the alarm sounds you must be ready to escape, so develop and practice an escape plan today to ensure a quick exit. Plans should include:
- two ways out of each room,
- a designated meeting place once outside to ensure everyone got out safely, and
- how to notify and assist young children, older adults, and those with access and functional needs should the alarm sound.
Carbon monoxide alarms save lives too as CO is an odorless, colorless, tasteless gas which comes from incomplete burning of wood fires or gas-powered appliances, tools, or vehicles in the home or garage. Sources can include wood-burning fireplaces and stoves, gas fireplaces, appliances, grills, generators, and motor vehicles. Maintaining wood and gas-burning appliances is critical to reduce the risk of malfunctions that can lead to carbon monoxide exposure. Having a working CO detector in your home can alert you before you recognize symptoms such as nausea, headaches, dizziness, disorientation and fatigue, which are often confused with other common illnesses.
Smoke and CO alarms are available for purchase at most hardware stores as well as online. To request a free smoke alarm, visit the Ready PA website to request a free smoke alarm from the American Red Cross.
Commissioner Cook highlights some additional smoke and CO alarm considerations:
- Dead or missing batteries are the most common cause of a smoke or CO alarm malfunction.
- All smoke and CO alarms should be tested monthly, including ones hard-wired to a home’s electrical system.
- Smoke and CO alarms have a life span, and the entire unit should be replaced every ten years with a new one, and some new alarms come with a non-replaceable sealed battery designed to last ten years.
- For families with individuals that have sensory or physical needs, smoke alarms with additional alerting tools like lights, vibrations, or alternate sounds including voices are available.
Homeowners unsure of how to maintain or install smoke and CO alarms should contact their local fire department for advice. Renters may consult local ordinances to understand any legal requirements for landlords in their area to provide smoke and CO alarms.
To learn more about making your home a safer home, including smoke and CO alarms, fire extinguishers, and home sprinkler systems, visit the Ready PA Safer Home website.
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