In recent years, 60% of America's home-fire deaths have occurred in homes without smoke detectors, and 50% of all fire deaths happen at night. Investing in an inexpensive smoke detector can mean the difference between life and death.
Proper Care
- Test the batteries once a month.
- Replace any battery too weak to sound the alarm.
- Most detectors "chirp" when the battery is low.
- Don't place your detector in kitchens, bathrooms, or garages, where cooking fumes, steam, or exhaust can set off the alarm when there is no fire.
- Smoke detectors have a life expectancy of 10 years. Replace any detector that is more than 10 years old.
- Develop and practice a family escape plan.
- Change batteries twice each year when the clocks change. Never disable your smoke detector by removing the battery!
If you require assistance in purchasing or installing a smoke detector, or just have questions, call the Fire Department, at 630-833-5350, Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.