Time to check, update smoke alarms with time change, fire officials say
SHENANDOAH – Smoke alarms save lives. That message has been echoed time and again by fire officials locally and statewide as the State Fire Commissioner says Pennsylvania is leading the nation in fire-related deaths.
Pennsylvania State Fire Commissioner Tom Cook and local firefighters are urging residents to check and change your smoke alarm batteries this weekend when you change your clocks.
Functioning and properly placed smoke alarms, Cook says, can decrease the risk of dying in a house fire by as much as half.
“Pennsylvania is once again leading the nation in fire-related deaths, and that underscores just how critical it is for every family to maintain working smoke alarms in their homes,” Cook said. “With only a few minutes to escape a home fire, a properly functioning smoke alarm can mean the difference between life and death. Please test your smoke alarms regularly, replace batteries when needed, and make fire safety a priority for your loved ones.”
Cook said smoke alarms should be on every floor of a home, inside every sleeping area, and in hallways outside sleeping areas. You should also develop and practice an escape plan once your alarm sounds, including having two ways out of each room if possible, a designated meeting place once outside, and to take a headcount to ensure everyone got out safely.
On numerous occasions, Shenandoah Fire Chief Rick Examitas has said working smoke alarms saved lives in house fires here in town.
If you need a smoke alarm and live in Shenandoah, call borough hall or one of the five fire companies in town. Many other local fire companies offer free alarms, too.
The American Red Cross, through their Sounding the Alarm campaign, is installing free smoke alarms across Pennsylvania.
“Red Cross home fire responses in Pennsylvania have increased 12% compared to this same time last year,” said Jorge Martinez, CEO, American Red Cross of Greater Pennsylvania. “In moments when help can’t wait, volunteers of all ages and backgrounds come together to offer care, comfort and hope. Their commitment reflects a shared humanitarian spirit and continues to make a meaningful difference through our lifesaving mission.”
To request a free smoke alarm installation, become a volunteer or donate, visit SoundTheAlarm.org/GreaterPA.
About Author
