Make smoke alarms work for you!
According to the National Fire Protection Association, smoke alarms reduce the risk of dying in a home fire by more than half (54 percent). Meanwhile, roughly three out of five fire deaths happen in homes with either no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms.
The Town of Granby Fire Marshal’s Office encourages all residents to embrace Fire Prevention Week (Oct. 5 to 11). “Working smoke alarms can make a life-saving difference in a home fire, giving people the time to get out safely,” said Granby Fire Marshal Brian Long. “This year’s Fire Prevention Week is a great way to remind everyone about these messages and to act on them.”
Key smoke alarm safety tips
Install smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each separate sleeping area (like a hallway), and on each level (including the basement) of the home.
Make sure smoke alarms meet the needs of all family members, including those with sensory or physical disabilities.
Test smoke alarms at least once a month by pushing the test button.
Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.
For more general information about Fire Prevention Week and smoke alarms, visit fpw.org For fire safety fun for kids, visit sparky.org
The Granby Fire Marshal’s Office offers freeinspection of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms for one- and two-family homes in our town. There is no cost or obligation involved. We can supply replacement smoke alarms to homeowners. Help us keep you and your family safe. Contact us today at 860-844-5321 or firemarshal@granby-ct.gov
Fall and Winter Fire Safety
During the fall and winter months, residential fires are more prevalent due in part to an increase of cooking and heating fires. People resort to using fireplaces, wood stoves, space heaters and other alternative heating methods. These are acceptable but they are also major contributors to residential fires. The following fire safety advice can help maintain a fire-safe home.
Wood Stove and Fireplaces
Have the fireplace or stove installed properly by a qualified professional.
Have the chimney inspected annually and cleaned.
Use a fireplace screen.
Do not use flammable liquids to start or accelerate any fire.
Allow ashes to cool before disposing of them in a covered metal container outside of any building.
Install smoke and carbon monoxide alarms in your home.
Never burn charcoal indoors, because it gives off lethal amounts of carbon monoxide.
Before going to bed, be sure your fireplace fire is out.
Furnaces
Have your furnace inspected to ensure that it and all the furnace controls and emergency shutoffs are in proper working condition. Do not attempt repairs yourself—hire a qualified specialist.
Does the chimney have any cracks or loose bricks? Unused flue openings should be sealed with solid masonry.
Keep trash and other combustibles away from the heating system.
Space Heaters
Be sure your space heater is Underwriter Listed (UL) approved and in good working condition. Choose a heater with a thermostat and overheat protection and that it has an auto shut-off should the heater tip over.
Space heaters should have 36 inches of clearance from combustible surfaces and be placed on flat, solid floor with support and protection.
Keep space heaters away from foot traffic and never block an exit.
Plug the heaters directly into a wall outlet—no extension cords!
Winter Storm Fire Safety
Stay away from damaged or downed utility lines—they can present a fire- and life-safety hazard.
Generators used during power outages can be hazardous. Regularly maintain the generator and follow all the manufacturer’s directions for operation.