Residents encouraged to learn “sounds of fire safety” during National Fire Prevention Week

“What we’re speaking to there is knowing what safety sounds (like) in your home or other buildings that you might be in,” he said.

“Early warning is key to getting out of any building that has products of combustion.”

Johnson stressed one way to keep yourself safe is by making sure your smoke or carbon monoxide detectors are working year-round.

“All of these alarms will have some sort of power to them. Some are plugged into household currents, some are battery operated, some have a battery backup,” explained Johnson.

“Either way, you should always make sure your alarms are functioning by testing them and ensuring batteries are replaced at least once a year, if not twice a year.”

Johnson says it’s also important to check your alarms once a month, to make sure everything is up to standard.

“You could check it monthly. Some people accidentally do when they burn the toast. Perhaps steam from a shower might send them off, those are ways to make sure your smoke alarm is working. Most smoke alarms will have a test button on them.”

According to Johnson, the only way to test a carbon monoxide detector is by hitting the test button.

More information on fire safety and how you can keep your family safe can be found at the National Fire Prevention Week website.

by Shane Clausing

Residents encouraged to learn “sounds of fire safety” during National Fire Prevention Week

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