Officals remind residents the importance of working smoke alarms during Fire Prevention Week

STOW, Mass. (WWLP) – This week is Fire Prevention Week, which is an annual campaign that encourages people to learn more about fire safety tips, to protect both their property and themselves.

Fire Prevention Week is observed every year during the week of October 9 in commemoration of the Great Chicago Fire, which began on October 8, 1871.

According to the Massachusetts Department of Fire Services, only about half of the 31 residential fire deaths in Massachusetts last year took place in homes without working smoke alarms.“Smoke alarms are your first line of defense against a fire at home,” said State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine.

During Fire Prevention Week, it is important to remember safety tips as this year’s theme is “Smoke Alarms: Make Them Work for You.”

Smoke Alarm Safety Tips

• Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, including in each bedroom and the hallway outside each bedroom so you’re protected as you sleep.
• Test your alarms each month to be sure they’re working properly.
• If your alarms take alkaline batteries, replace the batteries twice a year when you change your clocks. If your alarm is “chirping,” it’s time to replace the batteries.
• Replace smoke alarms after 10 years. The manufacturing date is printed on the back.
• When purchasing a new alarm, choose one from a well-known national brand with a hush feature and a sealed, long-life battery.

It is also important to check with older relatives, friends, and neighbors to see if they need help installing, testing, or maintaining their alarms, as people ages 65 and older are most vulnerable to a fire at home.

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