Proper home safety begins with a functioning fire alarm system. This fall, the electricians of Cincinnati, OH’s Craftsman Electric remind residents that fire safety is of particular importance during the fall. This is the time of year when more candles, fireplaces, space heaters, and electric blankets are used, causing the risk of accidental fires to increase. If your fire alarms aren’t in working order, you might end up in an emergency situation.

To protect your loved ones and prized possessions, Craftsman Electric offers three fall preparation tips for your fire alarm system:

  • Use The Test Button: Fire alarms have test buttons that emit a high-pitched sound when pressed. If nothing happens when you press the test button, the battery is likely dead. Another indicator of a dead battery is the absence of a blinking or illuminated light.
  • Direct Smoke Toward The Alarm: The best way to test the alarm’s functionality is with actual smoke. Light three or four matches and blow them out simultaneously. Hold the matches up close to the fire alarm, distributing the smoke toward the unit. If it’s operating properly, the alarm will detect the smoke and produce a loud noise.
  • Replace It As Needed: The majority of alarms have a lifespan of about 10 years. After this, dust and debris will begin to block the sensors that detect smoke. If your home is equipped with an older unit, consider a replacement.

Fall fire safety also depends on basic household habits. For your security, never leave lit candles unattended, and keep them at a reasonable distance from curtains and flammable surfaces. You should also turn space heaters off if a room is empty or sufficiently warmed. Finally, replace your heating pads and electric blankets for newer models—most feature overheat detectors that cause them to turn off when they get too hot.

For more information on home electrical repairs or fire safety in general, call the electrical contractors of Craftsman Electric at (513) 891-4426 today. Visit the company’s website to browse their available services.