According to the National Fire Protection Association, only 30% of fires begin in the kitchen. It turns out that the most dangerous room in the house is the bedroom due to unattended candles, smoking in bed, and use of space heaters. You should never leave a space heater on while you are sleeping and should always keep the heater at least three feet away from bedding, curtains, and furniture. It is also recommended that smoke detectors be installed inside and outside of each bedroom and sleeping area, as well as on every level of your home. People who are hard of hearing should install special alarms with strobe lights and bed shakers.
After changing your batteries, test each alarm using the test button. Be sure that each member of your household understands the meaning of the alarm, and how to evacuate safety. It is also a good idea to designate a meeting place outside of the home. After checking your alarms, consider checking the smoke detectors in your elderly neighbor's home or your parent's home. Most smoke alarms are installed on the ceiling and cannot be accessed without a ladder or stool, making it difficult for seniors to check safely.
Do you know of someone that is in need of need smoke detectors but can't afford them? Nassau County Fire Rescue offers free smoke alarms to needy citizens residing in the unincorporated areas of the County. Simply fill out the attached application and return it to Fire/Rescue Headquarters located at 96160 Nassau Place, Yulee, FL 32097. If accepted, Fire Inspector Jerry Marrison will contact you to schedule a date and time for installation. For more information, you can reach Mr. Marrison at (904) 491-7525 or via email at [email protected].
-Sabrina Robertson
Nassau County Manager's Office