MANCHESTER, NH – Does your home have a smoke alarm?
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the answer is likely yes: NFPA research shows that most American homes have at least one. But do you know how old your smoke alarms are? If you’re like most people, you’re probably not so sure.
A recent survey conducted by NFPA revealed that only a small percentage of people know how old their smoke alarms are, or how often they need to be replaced. That lack of awareness is a concern for New Hampshire Fire Departments and NFPA, along with fire departments throughout the country, because smoke alarms don’t last forever.
“Time and again, I’ve seen the life-saving impact smoke alarms can have in a home fire, but I’ve also seen the tragedy that can result when smoke alarms aren’t working properly,” says Marshal Degnan, “That’s why we’re making a concerted effort to educate residents about the overall importance of smoke alarms, and that they do have a life limit.”
As the official sponsor of Fire Prevention Week for more than 90 years, NFPA is promoting this year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign, “Don’t Wait – Check the Date! Replace Smoke Alarms Every 10 Years,” to better educate the public about the critical importance of knowing how old their smoke alarms are and replacing them once they’re 10 years old. Fire Prevention Week is October 9-15, 2016.
The City of Manchester’s Fire Department is hosting a Kick-off event at the Manchester fire station, 100 Merrimack Street on Sunday October 9, 2016 in support of Fire Prevention Week. Immediately following the annual Manchester parade will be messages from Chief Goonan, Marshal Degnan, and Kristen Binau from the American Red Cross. Governor Hassan will be there to read the Fire Prevention Week Proclamation.
A residential fire sprinkler demonstration and a demonstration with Accelerant Detection K9 Wynett and her handler Mitch Cady will also be performed.
“To find out how old your smoke alarm is and its expiration date, simply look on the back of the alarm where the date of manufacture is marked. The smoke alarm should be replaced 10 years from that date,” said Chief Goonan. “Smoke alarms should be tested monthly, and that batteries should be replaced once a year or when they begin to chirp, signaling that they’re running low.”
For more information on smoke alarms and this year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign, “Don’t Wait: Check the Date! Replace Smoke Alarms Every 10 Years.” visit www.firepreventionweek.org.
