Today is the first day of National Fire Prevention week, with this year’s theme focusing on the importance of smoke detectors in fire safety.
Members of various fire services will be providing the public with information and tips on how to properly install and maintain smoke detectors in their homes.
Roger Hollander – fire chief of the 100 Mile House Fire Rescue – says that neglecting to clean and maintain your smoke detectors can inhibit their ability to do their job
“Alarms should be periodically cleaned by gently vacuuming the outside of the unit. We encourage folks to do that. Battery operated smoke alarms, and electrical ones with battery backups should have their batteries changed at least once, preferably twice a year. A good rule of thumb is to do it whenever you’re moving your clocks forward or back.”
The fire chief recommends that a smoke alarm be installed outside of every sleep area and at least have one on every level of a home – including the basement – to maximize safety.
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