Keep testing your smoke alarms
RESIDENTS are being asked to test their smoke alarms regularly by Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service (RBFRS).
The fire service has laid out steps people can take to ensure their alarms are in working order as part of the national Fire Kills campaign.
Smoke alarms give occupants extra moments to escape property in the event of a fire, and have an average lifespan of 10 years.
Nicola Smith, prevention manager at RBFRS, said: “It only takes a few seconds to test a smoke alarm but it could save your life. Smoke alarms offer vital protection in the event of an emergency, but often people fit them and forget.
“They don’t realise their smoke alarm might be coming to the end of its lifespan or not working at all.
“For most of us, there is nothing more important than keeping our families safe and secure. So, if your alarm isn’t working or a floor in your home is missing an alarm of its own, fit new ones, test them at weekly intervals and keep your home safe.”
She added that people experiencing difficulties fitting their alarms should contact RBFRS for assistance.
The fire service is advising residents across Berkshire to keep their smoke alarms in good working order by following the following steps:
■ Make sure there is at least one smoke alarm on every level of the home;
■ Test smoke alarms by pushing the button, ideally once a week;
■ Check that smoke alarms are less than 10-years-old;
■ Change the batteries every year never remove them temporarily;
■ Fit smoke alarms in the right place – on landings and hallways and near bedrooms. Avoid placing them in kitchens or bathrooms where smoke or steam can set them off by accident;
■ Take a moment to check on friends and family members who may need help installing and testing smoke alarms in their homes.
As well as testing smoke alarms weekly, residents should change the batteries at least once a year, unless they are using a 10-year alarm.
Alarms should be gently vacuumed twice a year to remove dust and must be replaced in their entirety every ten years. ■ For more information, visit: www. rbfrs.co.uk