Ten‑year sealed units, battery replacements, and routine testing can save lives
Fire safety officials continue to stress that one of the most effective ways to prevent tragedy is also one of the simplest: making sure your smoke alarms are working.
Smoke alarms should be tested monthly, replaced every ten years, and updated sooner if they fail to sound during testing. Homeowners should also know whether they have 10‑year sealed battery alarms, which are designed to be replaced as a whole unit at the end of their lifespan, or traditional battery‑powered alarms, which require regular battery changes.
What homeowners/renters should do now
– Test every smoke alarm once a month. Press and hold the test button until the alarm sounds.
– Identify your alarm type.
– 10‑year sealed alarms contain a long‑life lithium battery and must be replaced entirely when they reach end‑of‑life.
– Traditional alarms need new batteries at least once a year, or sooner if they chirp.
– Replace outdated alarms. Any unit older than ten years should be removed and replaced.
– Install alarms in the right places. Bedrooms, hallways outside sleeping areas, and every level of the home should have working alarms.
Free inspections available – Many area fire departments offer free smoke alarm checks, including help identifying outdated units and ensuring alarms are installed correctly. Some departments also provide alarms for households that need them.
A few minutes of maintenance now can make all the difference in an emergency.
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