As the days get shorter and with cold weather on the horizon, now is a good time to test your smoke alarm and replace their batteries. If it is more than 10 years old, it might be time to replace them with new ones.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, almost two-thirds of home fire deaths resulted from fires in properties without working smoke alarms. A working smoke alarm significantly increases your chances of surviving a deadly home fire.
The Seattle Fire Department recommends that you install at least one smoke alarm on every level of your home and in each bedroom.
Do you need smoke alarms in your home? You may qualify for free combination smoke/CO alarms from the Seattle Fire Department if you meet the following criteria:
- You live in the City of Seattle
- You own and live in your home
- You are living on a low income, are a senior citizen or have a disability.
Seattle residents who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing may qualify for a free strobe smoke alarm. If you fit these criteria and wish to request the installation of smoke alarms in your home, call the Seattle Fire Department at (206) 386-1337 or send us an email to learn more about this program.