Gloucester Fire Department Shares Smoke Alarm Information in Recognition of Fire Prevention Week

GLOUCESTER — Fire Chief Eric Smith and the Gloucester Fire Department are publishing smoke alarm information during this year’s Fire Prevention Week which is being recognized Oct. 6-12.

Fire Prevention Week, organized by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), aims to teach everyone how to stay safe in case of a fire.

This year’s theme is “Smoke alarms: Make them work for you!” which aims to educate the public about the importance of having working smoke alarms in the home. The three most important factors are to INSTALL, TEST, and REPLACE.

Gloucester Fire would like to share the following smoke alarm safety tips from the NFPA:

• Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room and outside each separate sleeping area. Install alarms on every level of the home. Install alarms in the basement.
• It is best to use interconnected smoke alarms so that when one smoke alarm sounds, they all sound.
• Test all smoke alarms at least once a month. Press the test button to be sure the alarm is working.
• Smoke alarms have a shelf life of 10 years. Be sure to replace them after 10 years of use.
• Working smoke alarms are an important part of a home fire escape plan.
• Familiarize yourself with the sights and sounds of a smoke alarm.
• When an alarm sounds, immediately exit the house or building and ensure each person inside the home is accounted for. Then call for help and await instructions from emergency personnel.

To learn more about Fire Prevention Week, click here.