The Washington State Fire Marshal’s Office (SFMO) would like to remind homeowners of the importance of working smoke alarms.
In a Thursday 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.
Renters should contact their landlord or property manager for help, as all rental housing legally must have working smoke alarms.
