City Of Golden Valley: Learn The Sounds Of Fire Safety

Press release from the City of Golden Valley:

September 27, 2021

Every sound made by smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms sends a distinct message. Knowing the difference can save you, your home, and your family. 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 911, and stay out.
• A single “chirp” every 30 or 60 seconds means the battery is low and must be changed.
• Chirping that continues after the battery has been replaced means the alarm is at the end of its life and the unit must be replaced. All smoke alarms must be replaced after 10 years.

CO Alarms

• A continuous set of four loud beeps—beep, beep, beep, beep—means carbon monoxide is present in your home. Go outside, call 911, and stay out.
• A single chirp every 30 or 60 seconds means the battery is low and must be replaced.
• Chirping that continues after the battery has been replaced means the alarm is at the end of its life and the unit must be replaced.

It is also important to make sure your smoke and CO alarms meet the needs of everyone in your home, including those with sensory or physical disabilities.

• 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 close to your bed.
• Keep pathways like hallways lit with night lights and free from clutter to make sure everyone can get out safely.

Learn more at firepreventionweek.org.

This press release was produced by the City of Golden Valley. The views expressed here are the author’s own.