MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us @PGFDPIO
Today is Safety First Day of the Month of August. It is the day designated for residents to test their smoke and carbon monoxide alarms to ensure they are working. If they are not working replace the battery or replace the entire alarm with a new 10 year, tamper proof, with hush feature alarm. Our laws will require these type of alarms so you should replace your alarm now.
Test alarms - it may just be the difference between life and death.
We are encouraged by the number of home occupants that are safe today because of a working smoke alarm. While it is unfortunate they have suffered property loss and required to find temporary residence - they are safe. Over the past month we have had several success stories and we hope it continues, additionally, we hope everyone practices more fire safety at home.
In addition to having a working smoke/CO alarm always keep fire safety habits in mind.
Never leave food cooking unattended including your outdoor grill.
Never leave a candle burning unattended or overnight.
Never overload an extension cord and power strip - replace power strips every few years.
Never run an extension cord under carpet and furniture or place combustible items on top of them.
Keep outdoor grills at least 10 feet away from your house and other combustibles.
Discard of used charcoal properly - in a sealed metal container away from combustibles like your deck.
Dispose of cigarettes and other lighted materials properly - never flick or drop in grass or gardens.
These are just a few safety reminders to follow. We have seen fires recently with these same causes.
REMINDER - As of July 1, 2014 every home that has a gas service, fireplace and/or an attached garage is required by law to have a carbon monoxide alarm on every level of your home.
REMINDER - as of January 1, 2015 all homes currently protected by a battery operated smoke alarm must upgrade to a 10 year, tamper proof, with hush feature smoke alarm.
Our recommendation is that you purchase and install a 10 year, tamper proof , with hush feature combination smoke and CO alarm and install them on every level of your home.
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