Don't Forget About Your Smoke Alarms

As we prepare to "spring" our clocks forward this weekend the Mendham Fire Department would like to remind you to take some time this weekend to change the batteries in your own smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors, test the alarms and remind friends, family, neighbors and fellow community members to do the same.

According to the National Fire Protection Association more than 66 percent of home fire deaths that occurred between 2003-2006 were in homes without a working smoke alarm. A working smoke alarm significantly increases your chances of surviving a deadly home fire.

A properly installed and maintained smoke alarm is the only thing in your home that can alert you and your family to a fire 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Whether you’re awake or asleep, a working smoke alarm is constantly on alert, scanning the air for fire and smoke. Smoke alarms must be maintained! A smoke alarm with a dead or missing battery is the same as having no smoke alarm at all, so test your smoke alarm monthly by pushing the “test” button, if it has one.

Smoke alarms are powered by either a battery or are hardwired into your home’s electrical system. Hardwired smoke alarms are usually equipped with a backup battery. If your smoke alarm is powered by battery, the battery needs to be replaced annually unless it is a long-life battery (check the owner’s manual). All batteries should be maintained and replaced in accordance with manufacturer’s guidance.

Choosing an annual date, such as the time change, when you will remember to maintain your smoke alarm and keep it in tip top condition. Remember to take note of the date it was manufactured--If your smoke alarm was installed more than 10 years ago, it needs to be replaced.

For additional information and resources about smoke alarms, please visit mendhamfd.org.