(MURFREESBORO)  October 3-9, 2021 is Fire Prevention Week. Area firefighters encourage the public to learn the sounds of fire safety. This year’s campaign works to educate everyone about simple but important 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 Lorraine Carli, vice-president of outreach and advocacy at NFPA.

“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!” said RCFR Fire Marshal Joshua Sanders. “Make sure everyone in the home understands the sounds of the alarms and knows how to respond. To learn the sounds of your specific smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, check the manufacturer’s instructions that came in the box, or search the brand and model online.” RCFR has also enlisted the help of RCTV to create a short and informative video on recognizing certain sounds: https://youtu.be/WOUW_SDt4iU.

All of this area's firefighters encourage the public to learn these warning sounds: 

• 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.
• All smoke alarms must be replaced after 10 years.
• 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 CO alarms meet the needs of all your family members, including those with sensory or physical disabilities.

Remember, both Murfreesboro Fire Rescue and Rutherford County Fire Rescue install free smoke detectors in local homes. Studies have changed the placement of these life-saving devices, so contact your local fire department.  If you live in Murfreesboro, phone 615-893-1422 (M-F 8:00AM-4:30PM). For residents outside of Murfreesboro, but in Rutherford County, phone 615-867-4626.

For more general information about Fire Prevention Week and fire prevention in general, visit www.fpw.org.

NewsRadio WGNS says THANK YOU to area firefighters and thanks you for keeping our community safe.