Fire Prevention Week is Oct. 3 to 9 and Red Deer Emergency Services wants to remind citizens to learn the sounds of fire safety to keep their families safe.
“Smoke alarms are one of the most important means of preventing fire fatalities by providing an early warning so you and your families can escape,” said Red Deer Emergency Services.
“It’s important to learn the different sounds of alarms in your home, and to ensure everyone in the home understands the sounds of the alarms and knows how to respond.”
To learn the sounds of specific alarms, check the manufacturer’s instructions that came in the box, or search the brand and model online.
To ensure alarms are effective:
• Install a smoke alarm and carbon monoxide alarm on each level of the home near sleeping areas.
• Make sure alarms meet the needs of all family members, including those with sensory or physical disabilities.
• Test alarms every month by pressing the “Test” button on the face of the alarm.
• Change the batteries in alarms once each year.
• Replace all smoke alarms after 10 years.
• Keep alarms clean by removing dust and debris from around the unit to prevent false alarms. Sometimes the sensing chamber triggers when too much dust has accumulated inside.
Red Deer Emergency Services also wants to remind Red Deerians to always dispose of smoking materials properly. Many fires in the city are caused by improperly disposed of cigarette butts.
“Whenever you smoke, use deep, sturdy ashtrays. If ashtrays are not available, use a metal can or pail. Never empty smoking material directly into a trash can, and never throw out cigarettes into vegetation, potted plants or landscaping, as they can easily catch fire.”
For more fire safety tips, check out The City’s Home Safety Booklet at reddeer.ca.
To learn more about Fire Prevention Week, visit www.nfpa.org/fpw.