Don’t Wait – Check the Date!
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Every smoke alarm has an expiration date
Caledon Fire and Emergency Services (caledon.ca/fire) urges all Caledon residents to know how old their smoke alarms are, and to replace them every 10 years.
Does your home have a working smoke alarm? Do you know how old your smoke alarms are? If you’re like most people, you’re probably not so sure.
A recent survey conducted by National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA) revealed that only a small percentage of people know how old their smoke alarms are, or how often they need to be replaced. That lack of awareness is a concern for the Caledon Fire and Emergency Services, because smoke alarms don’t last forever.
“Time and again, I’ve seen the life-saving impact smoke alarms can have in a home fire, but I’ve also seen the tragedy that can result when smoke alarms aren’t working properly,” said Acting Fire Chief Darryl Bailey. “That’s why we’re making a concerted effort to educate Caledon residents about the overall importance of smoke alarms, and that they do have a life limit.”
To find out how old your smoke alarm is and its expiration date, simply look on the back of the alarm where the date of manufacture is marked. The smoke alarm should be replaced 10 years from the date of the installation of power, or at the replace date marked on the alarm.
The Caledon Fire Service also recommends smoke alarms should be tested monthly, and that batteries should be replaced twice a year or when they begin to chirp, signaling that they’re running low.
For more information on smoke alarms and this year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign, “Don’t Wait: Check the Date! Replace smoke alarms every 10 years”, visit www.firepreventionweek.org.
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