2016 Fire Prevention Week Still Focused on Smoke Alarms
"Why focus on smoke alarms three years in a row? Because NFPA's survey data shows that the public has many misconceptions about smoke alarms, which may put them at increased risk in the event of a home fire. For example, only a small percentage of people know how old their smoke alarms are, or how often they need to be replaced," NFPA noted.
This year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign is "Don't Wait – Check the Date! Replace Smoke Alarms Every 10 Years," and it is the final year of NFPA's three-year effort to educate the public about basic but essential elements of smoke alarm safety. The week is being marked Oct. 9-15.
"Why focus on smoke alarms three years in a row? Because NFPA's survey data shows that the public has many misconceptions about smoke alarms, which may put them at increased risk in the event of a home fire. For example, only a small percentage of people know how old their smoke alarms are, or how often they need to be replaced," NFPA noted, adding that, as a result of such findings, it is addressing smoke alarm replacement this year with a focus on these messages:
- Smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years.
- Make sure you know how old all of the smoke alarms are in your home. (To find out how old a smoke alarm is, look at the date of manufacture on the back of the alarm; the alarm should be replaced 10 years from that date.)
NFPA offers materials and resources at this page.