Telford Fire Company Safety Reminder: Test Your Smoke & CO Detectors!

Keeping your home safe starts with making sure your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors are working properly. Regular testing only takes a minute but can save lives.  We have had a few incidents recently where we discovered the smoke detectors were expired and felt our community needs a reminder!

🔥 How to Test Your Smoke Detectors

1. Press and hold the test button on the detector until you hear a loud siren.
   • If it’s weak or doesn’t sound at all, replace the batteries immediately.
2. If your detector is hard‑wired, it should still sound when tested. If not, it may need replacement.
3. Test monthly to ensure ongoing protection.

📅 Check the Expiration Date

Smoke detectors don’t last forever. Most have a lifespan of 8–10 years, even if they still “work.”
Here’s how to find the expiration date:

• Remove the detector from its mounting bracket.
• Look on the back for a manufacturing or expiration date.
• If it’s past 10 years, replace it right away.

Old detectors become less reliable and may fail to warn you during a real emergency.

🏠 Don’t Forget Your Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Carbon monoxide is colorless and odorless—CO detectors are the only way to know if it’s present.

• Test CO detectors the same way: press and hold the test button.
• Most models last 5–7 years. Check the back for the date and replace if expired.
• Ensure you have CO detectors on every level of your home, especially near sleeping areas.

❤️ Your Safety Is Our Priority

Regular testing and replacing expired detectors are simple steps that protect you and your family. If you have questions or need guidance, feel free to reach out to the Telford Fire Company—we’re here to help our community stay safe!

Stay safe, Telford! 🚒💨