With the winter season upon us and many families spending more time indoors, it’s important to remain diligent about alarm and CO safety. Below drafter and volunteer fireman, Jeff McNulty, shares some tips on staying safe..
Tip One: If an Alarm is Heard, Get out!
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When in doubt, get out, call 911!
Tip Two: Test ALL Detectors Monthly.
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Do this monthly.
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It’s important because consumers may not know how long he “new” batteries or in the case of the 10 year lithium ion (long life) detectors, have been stored on the shelf.
Tip Three: Remember to Regularly Replace Batteries.
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Do this AT LEAST once per year.
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If the detector is a 10 year lithium ion (long life) detector, the consumer can not and should not attempt to replace the battery. The detector needs to be replaced in full.
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Replace the back-up batteries in hard-wired detectors.
Tip Four: Remember to Replace Units.
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Replace if the batteries have been changed and it does not work during a monthly test.
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Replace if the carbon monoxide detector (battery powered or hardwired) is 5 to 7 years old. Check the back of the detector for date of manufacture.
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Replace if the smoke detector (battery powered or hardwired) is 10 years old. Check the back of the detector for date of manufacture.
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Replace if the carbon monoxide detector or smoke detector has been painted over. Do not paint detectors damaged!
Ultimately, if you’re ever in a situation where you question your safety at your home, the safest option is to dial 911.