Fire Prevention Week is October 3-9, and this year the campaign is, “Learn the Sounds of Fire Safety”. Is there a beep or chirp coming from your smoke or carbon monoxide alarm? What does it all mean? Knowing the difference can save you, your family, and your home.
Smoke Alarms:
- A continued set of three loud beeps means smoke or fire. Get out, call 9-1-1, and stay out.
- A single “chirp” every 30 or 60 seconds means the battery is low and must be changed.
- All smoke alarms must be replaced after 10 years.
- Chirping that continues after the battery has been replaced means the alarm is at the end of its life and the unit must be replaced.
Carbon Monoxide (CO) Alarms:
- A continuous set of four loud beeps means carbon monoxide is present in your home. Go outside, call 9-1-1 and stay out.
- A single chirp every 30 to 60 seconds means the battery is low and must be replaced.
- CO alarms also have “end of life” sounds that vary by manufacturer. This means it is time to get a new CO alarm.
- Chirping that continues after the battery has been replaced means the alarm is at the end of its life and the unit must be replaced.
If anyone in your household is deaf or their hearing has diminished, consider installing a smoke alarm that uses a flashing light or vibration to alert you to a fire emergency.