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The American Red Cross of Utah is encouraging residents to prioritize home fire safety as daylight saving time begins on Sunday, March 9. The third annual Utah Turn and Test March Smoke Alarm Challenge kicks off this weekend, urging Utahns to test their smoke alarms and replace batteries when setting their clocks forward.
Home fires are an unexpected and devastating disaster. Over 325,000 home fires occurred nationwide last year, resulting in over 2,600 deaths and approximately 11,000 injuries, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). “One of the simplest and effective ways to protect your home and family is to have working smoke alarms,” said Michael Smauldon, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Northern Utah Chapter.
Given the significance of working smoke alarms, the Red Cross of Utah has dedicated the entire month to the Utah Turn and Test March Smoke Alarm Challenge to raise awareness about not just having smoke alarms, but ensuring they are working properly. This initiative serves as a reminder for those who may not be able to test smoke alarms and replace batteries on Sunday. “Working smoke alarms can mean the difference between escaping a home fire unharmed and facing a tragedy. We urge everyone to test their alarms, replace old batteries and ensure alarms are installed on every level of the home,” Smauldon said. He noted that smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years.
Smoke Alarms Save Lives
According to the latest “Smoke Alarms in the U.S. Home Fires” report from the NFPA, working smoke alarms reduce the risk of dying in a home fire by about 60 percent. Unfortunately, the majority of home fire deaths occur in homes with no smoke alarms or no working alarms. “Smoke alarms are the first line of defense in a home fire. This weekend, take a moment to test your smoke alarms to ensure they’re working properly and safeguarding your family,” Smauldon said.
To address the ongoing threat of home fires, the Red Cross of Utah partners with community organizations and fire departments to provide free smoke alarms and fire safety education. Residents interested in fire prevention assistance can schedule an appointment for free smoke alarm installation at SoundTheAlarm.org/Utah.
During free home visits, Red Cross volunteers and partners provide smoke alarm installation, fire safety resources and valuable guidance on fire prevention strategies. They assist families in creating evacuation plans for all household members, including pets. “Most people don’t realize they only have about two minutes to escape a home fire,” Smauldon explained. “Fire safety knowledge and proper planning can make the difference in a home fire.”
Red Cross Home Fire Campaign Saves Lives
Since October 2014, the Red Cross Home Fire Campaign has saved at least 2,284 lives through fire safety education, escape plan development and smoke alarm installation. To learn more about the campaign and how you can participate, visit redcross.org/homefires.
Last year, the Red Cross of Utah responded to over 150 home fires, offering support to more than 800 residents. Disaster Action Team volunteers provide immediate aid, including temporary shelter, emotional support and recovery resources to those affected.
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
