President stresses smoke alarms a must for residents to have throughout homes

 By Tara Fischer 

Staff Writer 

(Oct. 3, 2024) As fire prevention month kicks off, the Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department offered safety tips to the community last week. 

At the Saturday, Sept. 28, OPA Board of Directors meeting, OPVFD President Joe Enste reminded residents that fire prevention week is from Oct. 6 to Oct. 12. This year’s theme is Smoke Alarms—Make Them Work for You.

“Smoke alarms can be the difference between life or death when it comes down to a fire,” the department president said. 

In the spirit of the awareness campaign, Enste informed OPA residents of proper smoke alarm handling. The first step is to ensure the devices are securely installed in all parts of a home. The devices should be placed in every bedroom and floor, including add-ons like above-garage bonus rooms. 

The alarms must be positioned correctly. Some are meant to be placed high, while others might hang on a wall or a ceiling. Enste said that if anyone is having trouble with the technology or their installation, the department is happy to come over and help. 

Alarms should be tested monthly and replaced when needed. Residents should also create and review an escape plan a couple of times a year in case of a fire emergency.

 “You need to know what to do when the smoke alarm goes off,” Enste said. 

For instance, having multiple exits in every area of a residence is recommended.  

“In every room in your house, there should be two ways out of that room,” Enste said. “The traditional way out the door and then maybe out a window. Practice those escape plans at least twice a year, so you and your family know what to do. If you have somebody needing assistance getting out of the house, make sure you communicate that to 911 when you call.” 

Enste maintains that alternative smoke alarms with features like strobing and bed shaking are available for those with hearing or other impairments.