From October 6 to 12, 2024 we recognize Fire Prevention Week™ (FPW). This year’s FPW campaign,
“Smoke alarms: Make them work for you!™” strives to educate everyone about the importance of having working smoke alarms in the home.

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.
• Test smoke alarms at least once a month by pushing the test button.
• Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old or stop responding when tested.
• Make sure smoke alarms meet the needs of all family members, including those with sensory or physical disabilities. There are special alarms and devices to ensure everyone can be alerted. Research the different products and select the ones that fit the needs of the people in your home.

For more information, see resources attached below. Get your own Smoke Alarm Checklist https://www.nfpa.org/events/fire-prevention-week.

This week is also an opportunity to share information about the importance of extinguishers and escape plans, as well as share fire safety tips such as:

• Develop escape plans that take everyone’s abilities into consideration and practice them regularly with everyone who lives in the home.
• Keep fire extinguishers in kitchens, basements, and garages, and know how to use them.
• Close doors at night to help slow the spread of fire and smoke.

Have questions or feedback?

Contact Mēsha Richard, Lead, Emergency Preparedness at mesha.richard@tbh.net.