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Fire Prevention Week: Campbell River Fire stresses ‘sounds of safety’

As B.C. comes off a historic wildfire season, with 140 still burning across the province, Campbell River Fire is pointing to the importance of Fire Prevention Week more than ever.

The annual week, underway until Saturday (Oct. 9), has prompted the local fire department to educate people regarding the key actions they can take to keep themselves and those around them safe.

Campbell River Fire crews have teamed up with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) – the official sponsor of Fire Prevention Week for more than 90 years – to promote this year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign, ‘Learn the Sound of Fire Safety’.

Fire chief Thomas Doherty says it’s important to learn the different sounds of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. “When an alarm makes a noise – a beeping sound or a chirping sound – you must take action,” he says.

Doherty continues, “Make sure everyone in the home understands the sounds of the alarms and knows how to respond. To learn the sounds of your specific smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, check the manufacturer’s instructions that came in the box, or search the brand and model online.”

The fire department is sharing some safety tips:

  • A continuous 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. Change batteries at least once a year.
  • All smoke alarms must be replaced after 10 years.
  • Chirping that continues after the battery has been replaced means that the alarm unit must be replaced.
  • Make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms meet the needs of all your family members, including those with sensory or physical disabilities.

“Is there a beep or a chirp coming out of your smoke or carbon monoxide alarm? What do the sounds mean? Knowing the difference can save you, your home, and your family,” adds Lorraine Carli, vice-president of outreach and advocacy at NFPA.

To learn more about Fire Prevention Week, visit www.fpw.org, and follow @cityofcampbellriver on Facebook for regular fire safety tips.

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