FSJ Fire Department focuses on sounds of fire safety during prevention week

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. – The Fort St. John Fire Department is visiting schools this week, advising students to Learn the Sounds of Fire Safety.

Fire Prevention Week runs from October 3rd to 9th and is carried out internationally. This year’s theme is focusing on knowing the different sounds of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.

The fire department started presenting to classrooms on Monday and will continue stopping by elementaries throughout the week.

Alyn Stobbe, with the FSJ Fire Department, says students will be taught what each alarm sound signifies in their homes.

“A smoke alarm, for instance, it makes a certain sound if you got a low battery; it is going to chirp. It won’t set off certain beeps. Knowing whether your alarm is chirping or beeping, that’s important,” says Stobbe.

If an alarm makes a beeping noise, it means smoke has been detected, and it’s time to exit the home, adds Stobbe.

Since “smoke doesn’t make a sound”, it is essential that smoke alarms are working correctly. Stobbe recommends a monthly test to make sure the alarm is working.

“Typically, your smoke alarm has a little button. You just press the button, it’ll set off the alarm, and you know that it’s working. That’s all you need.”

For family members with sensory issues or who are hard of hearing, Stobbe says there are special devices that send off low-frequency tones, flash lights, or even shake your pillow in case of an emergency.

“It’s important for those folks to have the device that works for them and know how to use it.”

For more information on Fire Prevention Week’s Learn the Sounds of Fire Safety, head to the Province’s website or keep an eye on the FSJ Fire Department’s Facebook page throughout the week.

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