Editorial: Install, check smoke alarms

Published 9:48 am Monday, October 12, 2015

Last week was Fire Prevention Week, and the focus of this year’s campaign was geared toward smoke alarms.

According to the National Fire Protection Assocation, roughly half of home fire deaths result from fires reported between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m., when most people are asleep.

Smoke alarms can save lives, alerting people quicker to the possibility of a fire. According to the association, having a working smoke alarm cuts the chances of dying in a reported fire in half.

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Smoke alarms should be installed in every bedroom, outside each separate sleeping area and on every level of the home, including the basement. Larger homes may need more alarms.

Smoke alarms should be tested every month and should be replaced every 10 years. Do what you can to protect yourself and your family.