October 3 - October 9 is Fire Prevention Week! This year the theme is "Learn the Sounds of Fire Safety!"
This year we are focusing on the sounds that come from smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms. What's the difference between a beep and a chirp. When a detector beeps repeatedly it is in alarm mode. When a smoke alarm detects smoke it will sound a continuous set of three loud beeps. Four continuous loud beeps in a row signifies carbon monoxide. When we hear the alarm we need to react. If smoke is present get down and get out. Carbon monoxide is a silent killer as it is colorless and odorless. When an alarm sounds get out and don't go back inside until your home is checked. NFPA reminds us "When you hear the beep get on your feet. Get out and stay out. Call 911 for help."
A chirp is a short alarm every thirty seconds. It signals that your alarm needs help. It could be a low battery. If it continues to chirp after changing the batteries the alarm needs replacement. If the unit is ten years old it needs to be replaced. In Illinois it must be replaced with a long lasting 10 year battery powered unit. If you hear the chirp make a change. Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are there to save your life. If it is making noise you must react. When in alarm plan your escape. If it chirps take care of it immediately. It can't save your life if it doesn't work.
This year we have several activities planned. On October 5 we will host a car seat safety check at the fire station located at 156 Indianwood Blvd from 2 to 6. On October 7 is the 40th Annual Firefighter Memorial and Silent Parade. The Memorial service starts at 6:30 at St. Irenaeus church at 207 S Orchard. The parade starts at 7 following the Memorial service leaving from the church. Check back for complete parade route details. And finally on October 9 we are hosting a Day in the Life of a Firefighter. This event will happen at the fire training site located at 50 N Orchard. Park at the Aqua center and cross over to the training site to see several live demos of firefighters at work. Bring your chair and watch the action.