Time to Check That Smoke Alarm

As homeowners prepare to keep their homes warm during the colder months ahead, it might be good to consider how long their smoke alarms have been in service. Teton County Fire Marshal Kathy Clay points out that smoke detectors generally have a 10-year life expectancy.
Clay said, “What’s important is if yours is old and yellow, it’s probably over 10 years old. Take it down, make sure that you have a smoke alarm that’s within its life expectancy and replace it if it’s not. Essentially, the manufacturer can’t guarantee that it’s going to work and that is a really important a part of life-safety in your home.”
Clay also points out that carbon monoxide detectors have an even shorter effective lifespan than smoke alarms. Clay recommends having a smoke alarm in each bedroom, in the hallway and in the common areas of the house. Additionally, Clay says the home’s appliances, whether they be gas burning or wood burning, should be safety inspected as we head into the cold weather months.
The American Red Cross provides smoke alarms through its Home Fire Safety Campaign.




 

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