Oregon Fire Marshal Reminds Residents to Test Smoke Alarms
Friday, October 30, 2015
"Smoke alarm technology has advanced and many now come with 10-year batteries and some are tamper-resistant," said State Fire Marshal Jim Walker. "So, I encourage residents to test their alarms before changing the battery."
Working smoke alarms provide a critical early warning to a fire, allowing vital extra minutes for escape, according to the Fire Marshall. The Fire Marshall also recommends installing smoke alarms on every level of the home, as well as in each bedroom and outside each sleeping area.
In order to test their smoke alarm, residents should:
1) Push the test button to be sure the battery is working.
2) When replacing batteries, follow the manufacturer's instructions for the correct battery type to use.
3) Always retest alarms after installing new batteries.
4) Replace any alarm that fails to operate after installing a new battery.
5) Inspect your alarms to determine if they are 10 years old or older, and replace any smoke alarm 10 years old or older. Look for a date on the back of the alarm. If there is no date, your alarm is more than 10 years old and should be replaced.
6) Follow the manufacturer's instructions for regularly cleaning your alarms of dust and cobwebs.
Residents should never disconnect or remove batteries from their smoke alarms for other uses, and make a home fire escape plan and practice it with the family members.
For more information on smoke alarms or fire safety, visit the Office of the State Fire Marshal's website.
Related Slideshow: 10 Significant Portland Fires
A four-alarm fire ripped through South Albany High School Wednesday morning, causing more than $1 million in damage.
The community will spend the coming weeks and months recovering from the blaze -- but it's not the first time a fire has significantly impacted a Portland area school, church or neighborhood building.
Here are 10 significant fires to recently impact Portland area communities.
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