National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Announces 2021 Fire Prevention Theme - "Learn the Sounds of Fire Safety"

The National Fire Protection Association has announced this year – 2021 – Fire Prevention Week will be observed from October 3rd thru 9th.  The 2021 theme for Fire Prevention Week will be "Learn the Sounds of Fire Safety,” which focuses on recognizing the different sounds and alerted that safety devices make when there is a fire or carbon monoxide hazard.

Knowing the unique sounds (noises) the alarm makes – a beeping sound or a chirping sound – means it is time to take action.

As parents, we do things to keep children safe each day.  During the child’s formulative years, it is an important time to teach children about fire safety.  You can empower all children with essential fire safety messages and skills that can make a big difference during an emergency.

The Fire Prevention Cohort of the Indian River Volunteer Fire Company is fast preparing for the upcoming fire prevention activities.

Smoke Alarm Sounds:

• A continued 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 the unit must be replaced.

• All smoke alarms must be replaced after 10 years.

Carbon Monoxide (CO) Alarm Sounds:

• A continuous set of four loud beeps – beep, beep, beep, beep – means carbon monoxide is present in your home.  Go outside, call 9-1-1, and stay out.

• A single chirp every 30 or 60 seconds means the battery is low and must be replaced.

• CO alarms also have “end of life” sounds that vary by manufacturer.  This means its time to get a new CO alarm.

• 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.

You may view the video link - Learn the Sounds of Fire Safety:  https://youtu.be/dglE1B1ydIk