Elite Electric & Maintenance - Lippolis Electrics, Inc.
No one can forget that one hour of precious sleep being lost on Sunday, March 8, 2020 for daylight savings time. Well… did you forget it is also time to check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors? Lippolis Electric, Inc wishes to take this opportunity to remind residents and customers of a few basic safety tips that can protect themselves and their families.
Follow these simple tips as a part of your overall fire prevention strategy and we are standing by to assist you in any manner you may need with knowledgeable service technicans.
Check Your Batteries
Changing batteries on a regular, annual basis is the best way to know all loved ones under your roof are protected. Whether AA, AAA, or 9 volts, the preventive costs of replacing batteries outweighs the unthinkable cost of the loss of a home. The National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA) reports the risk of death in home fires is 54% lower in homes with working smoke alarms than in homes with none or having one with dead batteries. NYS building codes require a smoke alarm in all existing bedrooms and a smoke/carbon monoxide detector in the immediate vicinity of sleeping areas (hallways). Interconnected/hard wired alarms with battery backup provide the greatest degree of protection. If one alarm senses smoke, they all sound. Individual battery powered alarms provide the minimum protection yet still meet building code requirements for existing homes.
Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector Testing
The NFPA recommends smoke and carbon monoxide detectors be tested at least once a month. A chirping alarm indicates battery supply is low and requires replacement or that the alarm itself is reaching end of life.
Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector Replacement
When is a smoke alarm too old? Experts strongly recommend replacing alarms 10 years or older. Over time dust can accumulate and desensitize internal sensors rendering them ineffective. Failure to pass the monthly push button test is another indicator it is time to replace alarms or if the white plastic casing has faded to a dull beige or brown, in all probability, its time is up.
Follow these simple tips as a part of your overall fire prevention strategy. Lippolis Electric, Inc. is standing by ready to assist you in any manner you may need with knowledgeable service technicians.
Visit our website at: www.lippoliselectric.com/smoke-alarm-safety/