Are you considering moving into senior residences in Barrington, NJ? If you are, it is important that you visit the senior residences and explore before committing. While doing so, remember to check on fire safety. You can bring your family or friend along during the senior residences tour visit. Follow the steps and checklist below as guidance.
Are There Smoke Alarms in All the Right Locations?
Look out for smoke alarms on every level, outside each apartment and sleeping area, as well as inside the bedroom itself. Smoke alarms are very important and can save lives. It is reported that nearly two-thirds of home fire deaths occur in homes without the presence of working smoke alarms.
Are There Notifications When the Smoke Alarm Rings?
It is important that everyone is able to hear the smoke alarm when it goes off. However, as you are living in a senior residence in Barrington, NJ, it is common that not all retired individuals are able to hear as clearly as before.
Hence, it is crucial to take notes if the senior residence has installed smoke alarms with notification appliances. It is good to have accessories such as strobe lights and a bed shaker to alert residents in the case of an emergency and respond quickly.
How Often are the Smoke Alarms Tested?
The suggested frequency of testing is one month. There is most commonly a ‘test’ button on such smoke alarms. Simply click to test and ensure it is still working as intended. Smoke alarms can stop working without showing any prior signs of breaking down or failure, so it is important to test them on a regular basis (monthly) to ensure they are in proper working conditions for safety purposes.
Are the Batteries Replaced?
It is highly recommended to replace the batteries of smoke alarms once a year or sooner if they begin to make funny noises. It is important to note that smoke alarms will not work as intended and will not ring when the battery has run out, so regular check and simple maintenance is needed.
Do You Know How Old the Smoke Alarms Are?
Check with the team at the senior residence in Barrington, NJ about how old their smoke alarms are. If it is over 10 years old, it is time for a replacement. The recommended time to change smoke alarms is every 10 years.
You can also check the manufacture date stamped on the inside of the alarm. If you are unsure how old it is, it will be good to replace it, either way, to ensure safety is met. Like any other objects, smoke alarms will wear out easily over time so keep them in proper condition to help during an emergency.
Is There a Proper Fire Escape Plan?
Most senior residences in Barrington, NJ have a standard fire escape plan curated for each home and its residents. You can ask the team on the ground for a copy of the floor plan and fire escape route. They will likely share a copy with you when you move in as well. It is important that the team conducts exercises and drills with the residents regularly as well.
