Learn_the_Sounds_of_Fire_Safety

Learn the Sounds of Fire Safety

Is there a beep or chirp coming from your smoke or carbon monoxide alarm? What does it all mean? Knowing the difference can save you, your home and your family! Make sure everyone in your home understands the sounds of the smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and knows how to respond. Know the sounds of your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms by checking the user guide or search the brand and model online.

What is your alarm telling you?

SMOKE ALARMS

  • A continued set of three loud beeps --– beep, beep, beep – means smoke or fire.  Get out, call 9-1-1, and stay out.
  • A single “chirp” every 30 to 60 seconds means the battery is low and must be changed.
  • ALL smoke alarms must be replaced after 10 years.
  • Chirping that continues after the battery is replaced means the alarm is at the end of its life and the unit must be replaced.

CARBON MONOXIDE (CO) ALARMS

  • A continuous set of four loud beeps – beep, beep, beep, beep – means carbon monoxide is present in your home.  Go outside, call 9-1-1, and stay out.
  • A single “chirp” every 30 to 60 seconds means the battery is low and must be changed.
  • CO alarms also have “end of life” sounds that vary by manufacturer.  This means it’s time to get a new CO alarm.
  • Chirping that continues after the battery is replaced means the alarm is at the end of its life and the unit must be replaced.

 

Make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms meet the needs of everyone in your home, including those with sensory or physical disabilities.

 

Some tips:

  • Install a bedside alert device that responds to the sound of the smoke and CO alarms.  Use of a low frequency alarm can also wake a sleeping person with mild to severe hearing loss.
  • Sleep with your mobility device, glasses and phone near your bed.
  • Keep pathways like hallways lit with nightlights and free from clutter to make sure everyone can get out safely.

 

Hear a chirp, make a change!  A chirping alarm needs attention.  Replace the batteries or the entire unit if over ten years old.  If you don’t remember how old it is, replace it!