With this year’s Fire Prevention Week starting on October 3rd, the Lloydminster Fire Department wants people to understand the sounds of fire safety.

Local firefighters are teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association for this year’s Learn the Sounds of Fire Safety campaign, with the focus being what the sounds of a fire or carbon monoxide alarm mean.

Lorraine Carli, vice-president of outreach and advocacy at NFPA, says knowing the difference between these beeps and chirps can save a person, their home, and their family.

Fire officials say there are sounds to watch for. A continuous set of three loud beeps means smoke or fire. Get out, call 911, and stay out.

A single chirp every 30 or 60 seconds means the battery is low and must be changed. Continued chirping after battery replacement means it’s time for a replacement, as the unit is now too old. These detectors should be replaced every ten years.

People needing a refresher on what these alarms mean should also check the manufacturer’s instructions that came in the box, or search the brand and model online.

Leigh Sawicki, Chief, Lloydminster Fire Department says any time the fire alarm is making noise is time to take action, and people should communicate what these sounds mean to everyone in their home so they know what to do.

Residents should also make sure smoke and CO alarms meet the needs of all their family members, including those with sensory or physical disabilities.

The Lloydminster Fire Department will share safety tips and messages on its Facebook page and the City of Lloydminster’s Instagram account all Fire Prevention Week.