Transitioning to the colder times of the year means everyone will be turning on their heaters for the first time in months, which is a big reason why there is a sharp uptick in home fires during late fall to early spring. That being said, Fire Prevention Week 2024 is being recognized next week, October 6th through the 12th.
One of the simplest and most effective way of protect yourself and your family this year is to test your heating systems and check your smoke alarms now. State Fire Marshal Tim Bean has been quoted as saying “About three of every five home fire deaths occur in residences without working smoke alarms.”
Another option is to speak to the American Red Cross and register to receive a visit from a member of their organization to check your fire prevention systems, and maybe to even give you a free smoke alarm.
In addition, the Missouri Department of Public Safety has released a set of tips below to remember.
- Install smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each separate sleeping area (like a hallway), and on each level (including the basement) of the home;
- Test smoke alarms at least once a month by pushing the test button;
- The end of daylight saving time, when clocks are adjusted to “fall back” an hour, can serve as an easy reminder to change smoke and CO alarm batteries once a year. This year, daylight saving time ends at 2 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 3, 2024. Remember, when you change the time, change the batteries.
- Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old;
- Make sure smoke alarms meet the needs of all family members, including those with sensory or physical disabilities.
