The Washington State Fire Marshal’s Office (SFMO) would like to remind homeowners of the importance of working smoke alarms.
In a press release, the fire marshal said the risk of dying in a home fire is reduced by 55% in homes with working fire alarms. According to the fire marshal, 89% of fire fatalities in 2022 occurred in locations where smoke alarms should have been installed.
The SFMO would like to remind homeowners and renters that:
- Smoke alarms should be installed in every room and on every level.
- Alarms have functional interconnectivity.
Ionization alarms are more responsive to flaming fires, and a photoelectric smoke alarm is more responsive to smoldering fires. Photoelectric alarms are the best type installed near the kitchen and bathrooms.
Alarms should be tested at least once a month, and if battery operated, the batteries should be changed during daylight-saving’s time.
Smoke alarms are designed to remain effective for up to 10 years.
All rental housing legally must have working smoke alarms.
