“Hit Me with Your Best Beep!”
If this sounds familiar, it’s because the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) made smoke alarms their topic of the year—and for good reason! Repetition saves lives: Smoke alarms save lives. Escape plans save lives.
Did you know?
- Working smoke alarms reduce the risk of dying in a home fire by 54%.
- 3 out of 5 home fire deaths happen in homes with no smoke alarms or alarms that don’t work.
Smoke alarms are one of the most affordable ways to protect your loved ones and your home.
Here’s what NFPA recommends:
Smoke Alarm Basics:
- Install alarms in every bedroom, outside sleeping areas, and on every level of your home (including the basement).
- Make sure alarms meet the needs of everyone in your household, including those with hearing impairments. Options include strobe lights or bed shakers that activate when the alarm sounds.
- Test alarms monthly by pressing the test button. If you hear chirping, replace the batteries. If that doesn’t fix it, call your local fire department.
- Replace alarms every 10 years or if they don’t respond when
Pro Tip: Newer alarms often come with a sealed lithium battery that lasts 10 years—no replacements needed!
Escape Plans: Your Family’s Lifeline
When the alarm sounds, you have 2–3 minutes to get out safely. That’s why an escape plan is critical. Here’s how to make one:
- Draw a simple floor plan of your
- Mark two exits from every
- Pick a safe meeting spot outside (tree, mailbox, light pole).
- Practice your plan—especially with The more you practice, the less scary it becomes.
- Once you’re out, stay out. Call 911 from your phone or a neighbor’s
Need Help? We’ve Got You Covered!
Our Smoke Alarm & Battery Replacement Program is here to keep you safe. In 2025, our incredible volunteers installed over 5,000 smoke alarms and replaced 7,800+ batteries—and we’re ready to help YOU next!
� Need a battery change?
� Need a new smoke alarm?
Contact Santa Rita Fire Department today and let us help protect what matters most.
Call us at 520-393-7505 to enroll or ask questions.
Remember: Working smoke alarms + a practiced escape plan = lives saved. Don’t be a statistic—test your alarms today!
