Health and safety agencies are urging West Virginians to keep their home’s smoke detectors in good working condition during this year’s annual Fire Prevention Week.
Gov. Jim Justice issued a proclamation that West Virginia is observing Fire Prevention Week to raise awareness about fire safety.
The Department of Health and the Office of the State Fire Marshall encourage West Virginians to prioritize smoke alarm safety by implementing safety checks into their daily routines.
Smoke detectors should be located on each level of the home and outside all bedrooms.
Alarms should be tested monthly and the batteries should be changed annually. Smoke detectors should be replaced every 10 years.
Never disable an active smoke alarm. Clean cobwebs and dust from around alarms to avoid chirping or ‘nuisance alarms.’
For more Fire Prevention Week resources visit the American Red Cross website or contact your local fire station.
Appalachia Health News is a project of West Virginia Public Broadcasting with support from Marshall Health.