City of Lewiston Press Release
Members of the Media: Below please find a press release in which Lewiston Fire
Chief Paul LeClair is encouraging residents to test their smoke detectors, and he
also provides fire safety tips. Any media coverage you could render to help “get the
word out” would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Dottie
PRESS RELEASE
April 14, 2014
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CONTACT:
Dottie Perham-Whittier
Community Relations Coordinator
City of Lewiston
513-3000, x3205
513-3007 TTY/TDD
www.lewistonmaine.gov
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
LEWISTON: Lewiston Fire Chief Paul LeClair is encouraging residents to test their
smoke detectors, as “a working smoke detector is one’s first line of defense in
saving lives during a fire emergency.” He adds that nearly two-thirds of home fire
deaths result from fires in homes without smoke alarms or no working smoke detectors.
LeClair notes, “When there is a fire, smoke spreads fast, and you need smoke
detectors to give you time to get out.”
LeClair offers the following tips to assist with fire safety:
•
Install smoke detectors in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions: in
every bedroom, outside each separate sleeping area, and on every level of the
home, including the basement. Interconnect all smoke alarms throughout the
home, as when one sounds, they all will sound.
•
Smoke detectors that include a recordable voice announcement in addition to the
usual alarm sound may be helpful in waking children through the use of a familiar
voice.
•
Smoke detectors are available for people who are hearing impaired or hard of
hearing. These devices use strobe lights, and vibration devices can be added as
well.
•
Alarms should be tested at least monthly by pushing the test button.
•
Replace batteries in all smoke detectors at least twice a year; when you change
your clocks, change your batteries.
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•
Replace all smoke alarms, including2 | P a g e alarms that use 10-year batteries
and hard-wired alarms, when they are 10 years old or sooner.
•
Alarms that are hard-wired (and include battery backup) must be installed by a
qualified electrician.
•
If cooking fumes or steam sets off nuisance alarms, replace the alarm with an
alarm that has a "hush" button. A "hush" button will reduce the alarm’s sensitivity
for a short period of time.
•
An ionization alarm with a hush button or a photoelectric alarm should be used if
the alarm is within 20 feet of a cooking appliance.
LeClair also points out the importance of providing and maintaining a second means of
egress from every living space and bedroom areas in the event of an emergency. “Do
not block or hinder egress access with items such as air conditioners and
furniture, and yes, even snow and ice. Seconds count when a smoke detector
activates, and if the fire is blocking your primary exit path, a second exit can and
will save the life of you and your loved ones.”
Residents may contact the Lewiston Fire Department if they have any questions or
concerns – 513-3002 (TTY/TDD 513-3007)
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