Oshawa Fire Services (OFS) yesterday said data shows that most home fire deaths occur in homes with no working smoke alarms.
“This year’s focus on working smoke alarms comes in response to National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) data, which shows that most home fire deaths occur in homes with no working smoke alarms. Having working smoke alarms in the home reduces the risk of dying in a home fire by more than half,” OFS pointed out.
“People tend to remove smoke alarm batteries or dismantle them altogether when they don’t know how to fix the issue. These actions put them at serious risk in the event of a home fire,” it added.
This year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign gives people the tools and know-how to keep their smoke alarms in working order.
- Install smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each separate sleeping area (in a hallway), and on each level (including the basement) of the home.
- Make sure smoke alarms meet the needs of all family members, including those with sensory or physical disabilities.
- Test smoke alarms at least once a month by pushing the test button.
- Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old or don’t respond when tested.
This year’s Fire Prevention Week runs from October 6 to 12 and the theme is ‘Smoke Alarms, make them work for you!’ will be in the community providing information on fire safety, smoke alarms, carbon monoxide alarms, fire extinguishers and fire equipment.
Visit Oshawa Fire Services staff at the Oshawa Generals game Sunday, October 6 and at NEB’s Funworld (1300 Wilson Rd N) on October 12 for their educational booth featuring demonstrations, displays of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, and a variety of giveaways.
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