The Mississippi State Fire Marshal’s Office is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association to promote smoke alarm awareness and usage.
With this week being recognized as Fire Prevention Week, officials are parroting the “Smoke alarms: Make them work for you!” campaign to ensure everyone knows about the importance of having working smoke alarms in the home.
According to NFPA, smoke alarms reduce the risk of dying in a home fire by more than 54%. Meanwhile, roughly three out of five fire deaths happen in homes with either no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms.
“Working smoke alarms can make a life-saving difference in a home fire, giving people the time to get out safely,” State Fire Marshal and Insurance Commissioner Mike Chaney said. “This year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign is a great way to remind everyone about these messages and to act on them.”
State officials offer these key smoke alarm safety tips and guidelines:
- Install smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each separate sleeping area (like a hallway), and on each level (including the basement) of the home.
- Make sure smoke alarms meet the needs of all family members, including those with sensory or physical disabilities.
- Test smoke alarms at least once a month by pushing the test button.
- Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.
For more information about Fire Prevention Week and smoke alarms, click here.
