Message from Oyen’s Fire Chief

Fire Prevention Week 2024, with the theme “Smoke Alarms: Make Them Work For You!”, focuses on educating the public about the importance of having functional smoke alarms in the home. Smoke alarms are critical for home safety, and this year's campaign emphasizes keeping them in proper working condition to ensure they can provide life-saving protection.

Shaune M. Kovitch, Fire Chief, Oyen Fire Department

The initiative addresses a common problem where people dismantle or remove batteries from smoke alarms due to malfunction or frustration, leaving them vulnerable during a fire. Lorraine Carli, vice president of outreach and advocacy at NFPA, highlighted the serious risk of non-functional smoke alarms and the importance of giving households the knowledge to maintain them.

Key messages for this year’s theme:

• Install smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area (like hallways), and on every level of the home, including basements.

• Ensure smoke alarms are suitable for all family members, considering sensory or physical disabilities.

• Test smoke alarms monthly by pressing the test button.

• Replace smoke alarms every 10 years, or sooner if they fail testing.

By following these guidelines, individuals can significantly reduce the risk of injury or death in the event of a home fire.

Shaune M. Kovitch
Fire Chief, Oyen Fire Department