Missing and expired detectors raise concerns after fires in Old Bridge
Fire officials advise residents not to wait until the Daylight Saving Time to check their equipment,
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Local fire officials are urging residents to inspect their home smoke and carbon monoxide detectors immediately following a recent wave of fire calls across Old Bridge Township.
Emergency responders report encountering multiple incidents where life-saving detectors were missing, outdated or completely nonfunctional. Authorities emphasize that functioning alarms provide critical early warnings that can mean the difference between life and death.
Fire officials advise residents not to wait until the Daylight Saving Time clock changes to check their equipment, outlining several key safety steps:
Test monthly: Use the test button on each unit monthly to ensure power and functionality.
Check the expiration date: Replace smoke detectors 10 years from their manufacture date, or sooner if they fail a test.
Know your alarm type: Determine whether units use replaceable batteries or sealed 10-year lithium batteries. Units with sealed batteries require replacing the entire detector once depleted.
Verify combination units: Dual smoke and carbon monoxide alarms may have different expiration dates than standard units. Follow manufacturer recommendations.
Renter responsibilities: Tenants who notice missing, expired or faulty alarms should contact their landlord or property manager immediately.
Officials warn residents to never disable an alarm or remove batteries, noting that a simple, multi-minute inspection today can save lives.
