"Don't Wait - Check The Date!" On Smoke Alarms During Fire Prevention Week

Last updated on Tuesday, October 11, 2016

(UNDATED) - Oct. 9-15 is Fire Prevention Week, and the Indiana State Fire Marshal and the Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS) are encouraging all Hoosiers to take steps to ensure their homes are prepared in the event of a fire.

"One of the most important steps Hoosiers can take to safeguard against fires is to ensure that working smoke alarms are installed in their homes and are not outdated," said Indiana State Fire Marshal James Greeson. "Homeowners should check the dates on their smoke alarms to ensure that no alarm is more than 10 years old."

Sensors in smoke alarms can become less effective with time, and it is recommended that smoke alarms be replaced every 10 years. To find out how old a smoke alarm is, look at the back of the alarm and locate the date of manufacture. Alarms should be replaced 10 years from the date of manufacture, not the date of purchase.

In addition to checking the dates on smoke alarms, here are some other tips to consider during Fire Prevention Week:

Test smoke alarms every month to make sure each one throughout the home is functional.
Make sure that smoke alarms are installed on every level of the home, and outside of each sleeping area.
Identify at least two exits from each room of the home.
Establish a meeting place outside and away from the home, and make sure that every member of the household is aware of its location.

It is also important to practice escape plans with family members. Here are some tips to remember when practicing escape plans:

Make sure that everyone knows which exits to use in each room of the home.
Escape plans should be practiced both during the day and during the night.
Make sure everyone is accounted for and designate one person to call the fire department.

While Hoosiers take time to safeguard their households, schools and businesses should consider holding a fire drill during the week to ensure that escape plans are still being practiced with staff and students alike.

For more information on Fire Prevention Week, visit NFPA.org. For more information on fire safety, visit GetPrepared.IN.gov.

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