The Mill City Volunteer Fire Department would like to remind everyone that it’s time to change the batteries in your smoke detectors.
“Smoke detectors do save lives,” the department said in a press release. “Take the time to get your children involved in monthly smoke detector tests to make sure they are working properly along with the drills for safe evacuation from your home in case of fire.”
Most fires occur at night, while people are asleep. All homes need a smoke detector that can wake people up in time to escape from a fire, and cut the chances of dying in a fire by 50 percent.
According to the widely accepted Standard on Household Fire Warning Equipment (NFPA 74), minimum protection requires smoke detectors outside each bedroom and on each additional level of the home, including the basement.
For extra protection it is suggested you also install detectors in the dining room, furnace room, utility room and hallways. If your family sleeps with bedroom doors closed, you might also install detectors inside the bedrooms.
Smoke detectors are not usually recommended for kitchens, garages, attics and unheated spaces.
The fire department has brochures on how to maintain and place smoke detectors in your home. They are available Monday – Thursday, 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. at 400 S First Ave.
