The Saint John Fire Department
reminds you to change the batteries in your smoke alarms when you change your clocks
back on Sunday, November 6, 2011.
Change
Your Smoke Alarm Batteries! Replace old
batteries with fresh, high quality batteries to keep your smoke alarms ready to
protect you all year-long. Test your emergency flashlights as well to make sure
they work when you need them, and replace the batteries if required.
Check
Your Smoke Alarms! After inserting fresh
batteries in your smoke alarm, make sure the alarm is working by activating the
safety test button. The fire department recommends testing smoke alarms at
least once each month. If you have any doubt regarding the working condition of
a smoke alarm, replace it. Replace your smoke alarms with new devices every 10
years.
Count
Your Smoke Alarms! A properly functioning
smoke alarm should be placed in every sleeping room and in the hallway directly
adjacent to those rooms. If sleeping rooms are on an upper level, a smoke alarm
should be installed in the center of the ceiling directly above the interior
stairway.
Clean
Your Smoke Alarms! Gently use a vacuum
cleaner once a month to remove dust and cobwebs. If your smoke alarms have been
painted or otherwise contaminated, replacement may be necessary.
Practice your escape plans with your
children. Children can become scared and confused when a fire erupts,
increasing their risk of injury or death. Practicing the escape plan will make
help them recognize the sound of the smoke alarm and remember how to get out of
the house. Create at least two different escape routes from every room and
practice them with the entire family.
For more information, visit
saintjohn.ca/fire or call 658-2910.