October 26, 2006

CHECK YOUR SMOKE DETECTOR BATTERIES

It’s proven – smoke detectors can save lives.  They are the single most important means of preventing house and apartment fire fatalities by providing an early warning signal -- so you and your family can escape.  

City of Midland Fire Marshals want to remind citizens to check their batteries over the daylight savings weekend.  Each time the time changes, in the fall and spring, residents are encouraged to check their batteries to ensure their detectors are properly working. 

Fire officials also recommend that smoke alarms be installed on every level of your home, including the basement. Many fatal fires begin late at night or in the early morning. For extra safety, install smoke alarms both inside and outside the sleeping area.

Smoke alarms are very easy to take care of.  There are two steps to remember.

1. Simply replace the batteries at least once a year. Some smoke alarms now on the market come with a ten-year battery. These alarms are designed to be replaced as a whole unit, thus avoiding the need for battery replacement. If your smoke alarm starts making a "chirping" noise, replace the batteries and reset it.
2. Keep them clean. Dust and debris can interfere with their operation, so vacuum over and around your smoke alarm regularly.

Smoke alarms should last about eight-to-ten years, after which it should be replaced.  Like most electrical devices, smoke alarms wear out.  Residents may want to write the purchase date with a marker on the inside of their unit.

HALLOWEEN SAFETY TIPS

Halloween can be a fun and exciting time for children.  The Midland Police Department encourages all parents to share the following safety tips with their children to help ensure a safe holiday.

• Wear light colored clothing or something reflective on your costume.
• Wear make-up, not a mask that gives you poor vision.
• Go trick-or-treating in groups with your friends.
• If possible, go with a grown-up.
• Carry a flashlight in late evening or after dark.
• Go to homes on one side of the street at a time.
• Cross the street only at intersections.
• Go only to homes that have the porch light on.
• Never accept candy that has already been opened.
• Never eat any of your treats until you return home and your parents have checked it.
• Don't run from home to home.  If it's dark, you could trip on something and hurt yourself.
• Tell your parents the route you plan to take.
• Never go into a house even if you are invited.
• Remember…if you can't see their face, consider them a stranger.

For more information about Halloween Safety, please contact the Midland Police Department Community Relations Unit at 685.7582

Can't find what you're looking for? Try our search engine.