The Lloydminster Fire Department recommends people check their smoke alarms, each alarm has an expiration date and should be replaced every ten years.
Fire Chief Jordan Newton says roughly 3 out of 5 fire-related deaths happen in homes without working smoke alarms.
“Smoke alarms are so important to fire safety, they really are a key part of our home fire escape plan. When there is a fire, smoke spreads fast. Working smoke alarms gives you an early warning so you can get outside quickly.”
The Government of Saskatchewan put out a release on September 4 stating people should have an alarm in each level of your home and outside each sleeping area. Residents should replace batteries annually and check the alarms monthly with a checklist to track each alarm test.
The Lloydminster Fire Department suggest families discuss their fire escape plan in the event of a fire alarm going off. The plan should include leaving the house and a meeting spot after exiting.
“Fire Prevention Week will be coming up the week of October 9th. You will see a lot of your local fire department in the community spreading fire safety messages. This year we will be focusing a lot on smoke alarms.”
Newton says that alarm manufacturers have placed expiration dates on the devices so residents know when they need to be replaced.
“It puts the whole family at risk if you don’t have working smoke alarms in your house. That truly is the first line of defence in getting out safely if there is a fire.”