Learn the Sounds of Fire Safety

The week of October 3 – 9 is Fire Prevention Week, so the Weston Volunteer Fire Department is promoting “Learn the Sounds of Fire Safety,” this year’s public awareness campaign by the National Fire Protection Association.

“It’s important to learn the different sounds of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. When an alarm makes noise — a beeping sound or a chirping sound — you must take action,” said Fire Chief John Pokorny.

“Make sure everyone in the home understands the sounds of the alarms and knows how to respond. To learn the sounds of your specific smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, check the manufacturer’s instructions that came in the box, or search the brand and model online.”

You can also go by these safety tips offered by the WVFD:

• A continuous 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 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 must be replaced. Smoke alarms must be replaced after 10 years.
• Make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms meet the needs of all family members, including those with sensory or physical disabilities.

To find out more about Fire Prevention Week safety in Weston, email Mark Blake, the Weston Volunteer Fire Department’s public information officer, at mblake@wvfd.com. For more information about fire prevention and Fire Prevention Week, visit www.fpw.org.

Mark Blake of WVFD