Don’t Forget To Check Those Smoke Detector Batteries

Don’t forget to check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors this October. Weak or dead batteries can lead to deadly consequences

According to California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, most fatal fires occur during the evening hours. Weak batteries may not provide the ear-piercing tone needed to awaken family members.

Smoke detector batteries may fail any time of year, especially during severe cold or heat spells. Remind your family to listen for tell-tale signs of failing batteries--a low level, frequent chirp emitted by the alarm sensor.

Smoke alarms are recommended for every sleeping room and hallways leading to sleeping. They also are needed in basements and each additional level of your house.

To operate properly, smoke alarms generally are installed on the ceiling four feet from the wall. Wall mounts should be installed four to 12 inches from the ceiling.

Other recommendations tips from CalFire:

Do not install smoke detectors near areas with a draft such as windows or vents.
Contact your local fire department if you have placement questions.
Setup a battery inspection reminder in your online or mobile calendar. The best times to check are when daylight savings time begins and ends.
Prepare an escape plan in case of fire, and practice it with your family. Your plan should include crawling low under smoke and a safe location to meet outside the house. The Red Cross recommends Including pets in your safety evacuation plan.
Don’t leave cooking food unattended. More than 40 percent of house fires in the US are caused by kitchen fires. The statistics include fires caused by cooking equipment such as a stove or oven, usually when food was left unattended.