Every fall, Energizer works to remind people of the simple, life-saving habit of changing and testing the batteries in smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors when setting the clocks back for daylight saving time.
This year Energizer is working with the Danville Fire Department to ensure all homes in Danville are equipped with batteries in their smoke and carbon monoxide alarms by donating 456 batteries to the “Get Alarmed Danville” program. The Danville Fire Department’s “Get Alarmed Danville” program is responsible for saving 96 lives in 35 homes since 1999.
Changing smoke alarm batteries at least once a year is one of the simplest, most effective ways to reduce these tragic deaths and injuries. Working smoke alarms nearly cut in half the risk of dying in a home fire. Additionally, the International Association of Fire Chiefs recommends replacing your smoke alarms every 10 years from the manufacturers’ date. The manufacturer’s date is located on the back of the alarms.
Also, Fire Marshal Shelby Irving recommends residents take the time to test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors by pushing the test button monthly, planning “two ways out,” and practicing escape routes with the entire family. Families should also prepare a fire safety kit that includes working flashlights and fresh batteries.
“The peak time for home fire fatalities is between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m. when most families are sleeping,” says Irving. “Smoke alarm maintenance is a simple, effective way to reduce home fire deaths. Children and senior citizens are most at risk, and a working smoke alarm can give them the extra seconds they need to get out safely.”
The National Fire Protection Association reports that 71 percent of smoke alarms, which failed to operate, had missing, disconnected or dead batteries. This fact reinforces how important it is to take this time each year to check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Energizer and the Danville Fire Department would like to remind you of the importance of batteries not only in smoke alarms, but also the full range of devices that help keep us safe, secure and comfortable in our homes.
The Danville Fire Department and Energizer are committed to educating all residents about home safety.
For additional information regarding fire safety, visit the Danville Fire Department on the City of Danville website: www.danville-va.gov or contact the Danville Fire Marshals’ offices: 799-5226
