Olympia – This week is Fire Prevention Week, and the theme is, “Smoke Alarms: Make Them Work For You!”
Smoke alarms are essential tools for detecting and alerting you to the presence of smoke which can provide vital time for you and your loved ones to evacuate. According to the National Fire Protection Association nearly three out of five residential fire deaths occur in homes with no working smoke alarms. In 2023, there were 40 fire deaths in Washington State that occurred in places where smoke alarms should have been installed. Of these deaths, 82% were reported to have no smoke alarm present or it was unknown if a smoke alarm was present.
Fire Prevention Week is an excellent opportunity to focus on the lifesaving benefits of smoke alarms. By ensuring that your smoke alarms are properly installed, regularly tested, and well-maintained, you can significantly increase your family’s safety. The Washington State Fire Marshal’s Office (SFMO) encourages everyone to participate in Fire Prevention Week by checking and maintaining your smoke alarms, ensuring all alarms are working, and replacing any that are outdated. Share the importance of smoke alarms with loved ones.
The SFMO offers the following safety tips to make smoke alarms work for you:
- Ensure smoke alarms are installed in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of the home, including the basement.
- Schedule a reminder to test your alarms on the same day each month, such as the first or last day.
- Replace batteries at least once a year, or when the alarm chirps, indicating low battery power.
- Smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years. Check the back of the alarm for the manufacture date. If your smoke alarms are over 10 years old, replace them promptly to ensure continued protection.
- If possible, consider upgrading to interconnected smoke alarms.
For more information, contact the State Fire Marshal’s Office at (360) 596-3929.