|
|
|
|
Department of Fire, Rescue & Emergency Management
Fire & Life Safety Education
Smoke Alarms
|
 In the United States, 80 percent of all civilian fire deaths result from home structure fires. In most cases, a working smoke alarm could have saved these lives. Smoke alarms are one of the best and easiest safety features you can use to protect yourself, your family and your home. So go ahead, "Put A Finger On I!" and follow these safety tips. If you need a smoke alarm, they are available for free by calling 703-737-8093.
- Location, Location, Location. It doesn’t matter if your home is big or small, old or new. All homes need smoke alarms that work. For the best protection, put one in every bedroom, in hallways close to sleeping area and on every level of your home.
- Pass the test. Check to make sure it’s working by putting a finger on it! Push the test button or use a broom handle to reach up and push the test button once a month. Always use new batteries when replacing old ones.
- Double your chances. When properly installed, smoke alarms give an early warning needed to safely escape from fire. That’s critical because 80% of all fire deaths occur in the home, and most occur at night when people are sleeping. Smoke alarms double your chances of surviving a fire!
- Practice often. It is important to conduct regular home fire drills and to make sure everyone in your home knows how to “get out and stay out” in the event of a fire. Fire drills aren’t just for schools- they are important at home, too!
- Be Safe- Replace! It is recommended that you replace smoke alarms that are 10 years old. Why? After working for 10 years, 7 days a week, your smoke alarm has been on the job for over 87,000 hours. Always follow manufacturer’s instructions for replacement.
- Smoke can kill. People often assume that most fire deaths are due to flames. In fact, most fire deaths are caused by the inhalation of smoke and poisonous gases.
- You can prevent a fire. Cooking and smoking cause many home fires. Space heater and candles also pose special dangers. By controlling all sources of heat and fire and checking your home for dangers, you can prevent common types of household fires.
- Contact Us. For more information about our smoke alarm program, use our Contact Us e-mail form and select "Smoke Alarms" from the list of topics, or leave a message on our hotline at 703-737-8093.
For More Information
Joy Dotson, Public Education Manager
803 Sycolin Road, Suite 104
Leesburg, Virginia
Phone: 703-771-5551
e-mail: joy.dotson@loudoun.gov |
|
|