National Fire Prevention Week has come and gone, but that doesn’t mean homeowners should stop thinking about safety.This year’s edition of the informative campaign focused on smoke alarms. According to the National Fire Protection Association, these devices can help save lives, provided they are installed and maintained.
Lorraine Carlie, NFPA communication vice president, notes many families know having a smoke alarm is an important component of fire safety and have at least one of the devices in their houses.
“Unfortunately, far fewer people are familiar with some of the newer recommendations for smoke alarms,” says Carlie.
The NFPA says each floor of a home should have at least one smoke detector, including the basement level. Furthermore, one should be installed outside sleeping areas and in bedrooms.
Homeowners should also make sure they take a look at their smoke alarms at least once every month. These devices come with a button that lets consumers test them to see if they are working. Batteries should also be replaced when needed.
While checking smoke detectors is one aspect of safety, so it having an escape plan. Homeowners should also store important documents – such as home insurance policies – in a safe place.
