Do you know the different sounds of fire safety?

Fire and carbon monoxide alarms make different noises for different reasons, writes Chief Andrew Zvanitajs

Yorkregion.com
Sept. 13, 2021
Chief Andrew Zvanitajs

When your microwave beeps, your food is warm. When your alarm clock beeps, it’s time to get up. When your smoke or carbon monoxide (CO) alarm beeps, it’s time to take action.

But did you know the type of sound the alarm makes means different things? It’s essential to know the difference and how to respond to help keep you and your family safe.

You can learn the sounds of your smoke and CO alarms by checking the user guide or searching the brand and model online.

For most fire alarms, a continuously sounding alarm means smoke or fire. Hearing this, you should get out, call 9-1-1 and stay out.

If you hear a single chirp, or a series of three rapid beeps, every 30 or 60 seconds, that means the battery is low and must be changed.

Chirping that continues after switching the battery means the alarm is at the end of its life and must be replaced. All smoke alarms have a date of manufacture on them and expire every 10 years.

CO alarms have a similar pattern of sounds. A constant set of four loud beeps means carbon monoxide is in your home. Go outside, call 9-1-1 and stay out.

A single chirp every 30 or 60 seconds means the battery needs replacing, and if the chirping continues after that, it’s time to buy a new alarm. Replace CO alarms every five to 10 years or as stated in the manufacturer’s instructions.

You can use special devices to ensure everyone, including those with sensory or physical disabilities, is alerted in case of an emergency and when a battery is low.

For example, some smoke alarms have strobe lights that flash to warn people who are deaf or hard of hearing. There are also bedside alert devices, like a pillow shaker, activated by the sound of smoke and CO alarms.

A low-frequency alarm can wake a sleeping person with mild to severe hearing loss. Research and select the devices that will fit the needs of the people in your home.

Products can be found in home improvement stores, online and on manufacturer websites, and can easily be installed without a professional.

Fire Prevention Week is observed each year during the week of Oct. 9, in commemoration of the Great Chicago Fire.

This year, it will take place between Oct. 3 and 9, and the theme is “Learn the Sounds of Fire Safety.”

It is a great time to make sure your alarms are in proper working condition, and to teach everyone in the home about the sounds of your smoke and CO alarms.

Remember, when an alarm makes noises, you must take action.

To learn more about fire safety, visit vaughan.ca/fire.