As Fire Prevention Week wrapped up in Las Cruces, the spotlight shone on a simple yet critical device, the smoke alarm. From Oct 6-12, residents were encouraged to make their smoke alarms work for them. "Smoke alarms: make them work for you," the theme for Fire Prevention Week 2024, reminds us that a small gadget could make a significant difference in emergencies.
The Las Cruces Fire Department took the opportunity to urge people not only to check their smoke alarms but to ensure they are up to the job. A simple test, pressing the "test" button should suffice to confirm functionality. This is vital, the department warns that unconventional methods like using a candle or matches could lead to malfunctions when they're most needed.
Maintaining a working alarm in every bedroom, outside sleeping areas, and on each level of the residence, including basements and attics, has been emphasized. As stated by the City of Las Cruces, the Las Cruces Fire Department also advises residents to replace batteries and test smoke alarms at least twice a year.
With the end of Daylight Saving Time approaching on Nov 3, the fire department suggests combining the clock change with a smoke alarm check, as noted by the City of Las Cruces, "Most people tend to adjust their clocks before going to bed the night before," which should make it easy to remember to also replace batteries and test alarms. An act as simple as changing batteries could evolve into a life-saving practice.
