Do you have working smoke detectors in your home?
Central Fire District can provide you with free smoke detectors and install them, if necessary, at no cost to you through our community smoke detector program.
Although 95 percent of American homes have smoke detectors many do not work due to neglect. This means that many homes and the families that live in them are unnecessarily at risk. Peak hours for residential fires are between 10:00 PM and 6:00 AM, when most families are sleeping. A properly maintained smoke detector can provide a warning during the early stages of a fire, giving the occupants time to escape unharmed.
Maintenance of smoke detectors is fast and easy:
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Test your smoke alarms once a week by pressing the test button.
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Replace the batteries in your smoke detectors at least once a year. Pick a date that you can remember and mark your calendar as a reminder. Don’t wait for the low battery alarm to remind you. The battery may fail before you have a chance to change it making your detector inoperative.
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Vacuum your detector regularly to dust and dirt particles that may accumulate.
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Replace your smoke detectors about every 10 years. Over time, detectors lose their sensitivity after being exposed to dust, dirt and impurities in the air.
Smoke detectors are only effective if they are installed in the proper locations and maintained regularly. If you have any questions about the smoke detector program or need assistance inspecting your detectors, feel free to contact the Fire Prevention division at (831) 479-6843.