Smoke alarms are an integral part of any home fire escape plan. Working smoke alarms alert occupants of fire danger and allow time for quick evacuation to a safer location. They also enable occupants to call 9-1-1 sooner for an emergency response. Smoke alarms can lessen the risk of dying in a fire by almost 50%. Though most homes in America have smoke alarms, it is estimated that one in three are inoperable. In addition, it is recommended that smoke alarms be checked and cleaned monthly, for batteries to be changed yearly, and for smoke alarms to be replaced every ten years.
The P.A.L.S. with Smoke Alarms Program assists qualifying York County residents with keeping operable alarms, particularly in and near sleeping areas, by providing and installing smoke alarms upon request. If you are a homeowner in need of assistance with the purchase or installation of smoke alarms or batteries, please contact the Department of Fire and Life Safety at (757) 890-3600 (M-F between 8:15 am and 5:00 pm). We will work with you to schedule a visit at the earliest convenience for you and your closest fire station personnel.
When we visit your home, you will answer a few questions and fill out a Liability Waiver. In addition, we will provide you with general fire safety education and basic information about testing and maintaining your smoke alarms. We can also conduct a quick walk-through to help you identify any noticeable safety hazards in your home. Please note that our fire personnel cannot assist or replace hard-wired smoke alarms unless the connectors are compatible. One would need to contact a licensed electrician for help with purchased hard-wired alarms that have different attachments.
If you have questions about smoke alarms or smoke alarms for the hearing impaired, please contact us at the number above.
Smoke Alarm Tips:
Every home should have multiple working smoke alarms.
The NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) recommends a smoke alarm be placed inside every bedroom, outside every separate sleeping space, and on every level of your home, including the basement.
Working smoke alarms are a crucial part of every home fire escape plan.
Make sure smoke alarms meet the needs of all family members, including those with sensory or physical disabilities.
It is best to use interconnected smoke alarms so that when one smoke alarm sounds, they all sound.
Test all smoke (and carbon monoxide) alarms at least once a month. Press the test button to be sure the alarm is working.
Change your batteries every year and check the expiration dates on your alarms. When you change the times on your clocks, it is a great time to check all alarms.
Replace alarms when they are 10 years old. If the manufacturer date for the smoke alarm is unknown, replace the alarm.
Follow the smoke alarm manufacturer’s recommendations for installing, cleaning, and maintaining the alarm.
A closed door may slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire.
Landlords are responsible for supplying and installing smoke alarms for their tenants. This will help to reduce property loss, injury, and death.