The Reno Fire Department would like to remind citizens to check their smoke alarms as they “spring forward” this weekend. Clocks will skip ahead one hour at 2 a.m. on Sunday, March 8, 2015 to mark the beginning of Daylight Saving Time.
This is a great time for residents to test and, if needed, change the batteries in all home smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Even with the advent of “10-year smoke alarm batteries,” smoke alarms should still be tested at least once a month to ensure residents’ safety. If an alarm chirps, warning homeowners that the battery is low, replace the battery right away.
Roughly three out of five fire deaths happen in homes containing either no smoke alarms or inoperable smoke alarms. Reno Fire Chief Michael Hernandez and all members of the Reno Fire Department want to remind citizens that smoke alarms are an important part of a home fire escape plan.
“When there is a fire, the toxic smoke spreads very fast,” Hernandez said.
“Working smoke alarms give the occupants of the residence an early warning, so they can escape the fire and get outside quickly,” Hernandez stated.
Following are some simple smoke alarm tips:
Smoke alarms should be installed in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of the home, including the basement.
A smoke alarm should be mounted on the ceiling or high on a wall, per the manufacturer’s instructions.
Keep smoke alarms at least 10 feet away from the kitchen to reduce false alarms.
Replace any smoke alarm that is 10 years old or older.
Test all smoke alarms at least once a month. Press the test button to ensure it is working.
Thanks to a FEMA fire prevention and safety grant, the Reno Fire Department still has a limited quantity of free residential smoke alarms, including ADA hearing impaired smoke alarms for qualified applicants. The Reno Fire Department will install these detectors free of charge.
For more information about smoke alarms and other fire safety information, including how to apply for a free smoke alarm, contact the Reno Fire Prevention Bureau at 775-334-2300.
The City of Reno government’s mission is to efficiently provide the highest level of service responsive to our community. In order to achieve that purpose, the Reno City Council has established four key priorities: Provide Safe and Livable Neighborhoods, Provide Efficient and Responsive City Services, Promote a Sustainable and Vibrant Economy, and Enhance Communications and Community Engagement. To learn more about the City of Reno, visit Reno.gov or call 334-INFO.
