Langley City, BC – Fire Prevention Week is October 3 to October 9, and this year’s campaign, “Learn the Sounds of Fire SafetyTM,” works to educate everyone about necessary but straightforward actions they can take to keep themselves and those around them safe.
“What do the sounds mean? Is there a beep or a chirp coming out of your smoke or carbon monoxide alarm? Knowing the difference can save you, your home, and your family,” said Cpt. Brent Perry, Fire Prevention Officer. “It’s important to learn the different sounds of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. When an alarm makes noise—a beeping sound or a chirping sound—you must take action! Make sure everyone in the home understands the sounds and signals of the alarms and knows how to respond. To learn about the specific smoke and carbon monoxide alarms you have in your home, check the manufacturer’s instructions that came in the box, or search the brand and model online.”
Langley City Fire Rescue Service wants to share safety tips to help you “Learn the Sounds of Fire Safety”:
- A continuous set of three loud beeps—beep, beep, beep—means smoke or fire. Get out, call 9-1-1, and stay out.
- A single chirp every 30 or 60 seconds means the battery is low and must be changed.
- Most smoke alarms expire after 10 years, and carbon monoxide detectors expire after 7 years. Be sure to check the manufacturers’ guidelines for the expiry dates of each device.
- Chirping that continues after the battery has been replaced means the alarm is at the end of its life and the unit must be replaced.
- Make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms meet the needs of all your family members, including those with sensory or physical disabilities.
Langley City Fire Rescue Service will kick off Fire Prevention Week by sharing a “Name that Fire Safety Sound!” video.
Follow the City’s Langley City Youtube page, the Langley City Fire Rescue Facebook Page, and the City’s Facebook Page
Fire prevention information packages will be emailed to local elementary students. As a reminder of the importance of fire safety, Langley City Fire Rescue Service encourages all schools to hold a fire drill during Fire Prevention Week. Participating Langley City schools will be entered into a draw for a $200 gift certificate provided by the Downtown Langley Business Association.
The Office of the Fire Commissioner, First Nations’ Emergency Services Society, the BC Burn Fund, and Fire Prevention Officers’ Association of BC is hosting a fire and burn prevention contest, with an opportunity for students in our community to win some fantastic prizes. Details on the contest can be found on the Office of the Fire Commissioners’ website at www.gov.bc.ca/
For more information on Fire Prevention Week, call Langley City Fire Rescue Service at 604.514.2880. For more general information about Fire Prevention Week, visit www.fpw.org
