For Immediate Release

Friday, March 11, 2016

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net

Georgetown Fire Department Reminds Residents to Test Smoke Detectors During Daylight Savings

GEORGETOWN – Chief Fred Mitchell Jr. and the Georgetown Fire Department would like to remind residents to test their smoke detectors when setting clocks ahead for daylight saving time this weekend.

Daylight saving begins Sunday, March 13 at 2 a.m.

“Testing and changing batteries in smoke detectors is a simple, and life-saving habit that can help prevent fires from happening,” Chief Mitchell said. “We encourage all of our residents to review the safety tips provided and check smoke detectors this weekend.”

The National Fire Association reports that 71 percent of smoke alarms that failed to operate had missing, disconnected or dead batteries. The Georgetown Fire Department asks that all business owners not only change the batteries in their clocks, smoke or carbon monoxide detectors, but also replace the batteries on wall mounted emergency lights and exit signs. All businesses have emergency backup lighting as a safety feature to provide temporary lighting in case of power failure.

In order to keep your home safe and prevent fires, Chief Mitchell recommends that residents follow safety tips outlined by NFPA:

• Test smoke alarms at least once a month using the test button. Replace the smoke alarm immediately if it doesn’t respond properly when tested.
• Replace batteries when you change your clocks.
• Make sure that everyone in the home understands the sound of the smoke alarm and knows how to respond.
• Replace all smoke alarms when they reach 10 years old.
• Smoke alarms with non-replaceable (life-long) batteries are designed to remain effective for up to 10 years. If the alarm chirps, a warning that the battery is low, replace the entire smoke alarm right away.

The replacement process is fairly simple and batteries can be purchased for most units at the local hardware store. Many fire protection companies can also provide this service.

The Georgetown Fire Department strives to continue to enhance and educate its residents to bring awareness of fire and life safety. For more information on smoke detector safety, visit the National Fire Protection website or contact the Georgetown Fire Department at 978-352-5757.

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