From the Village of Bronxville Building Department

Dec. 8, 2021: Below are some winter safety tips and reminders from the Village of Bronxville Building Department

-Make sure your smoke alarm and carbon monoxide alarms are functioning by testing them once per month. Both alarms should be battery-operated or have a battery back-up, and batteries should be changed once per year. You should have a separate alarm for each to prevent these separate emergencies.

-Have a smoke alarm and carbon monoxide alarm on every floor, outside sleeping areas and inside bedrooms. You can check for interconnecting alarms so that one sounds, they all sound. Your smoke alarm doesn’t just sound when there is a fire. Learn the difference between the sounds: three loud beeps (continuous) means there is smoke or a fire, and one “chirp” every 30-60 seconds means it is time to change the battery.

-Your smoke alarm must be changed every 10 years. Make sure you find out how old the smoke alarm is when you move into a new residence. If your smoke alarm continues to “chirp” even after you have replaced the battery, it’s time to replace your smoke alarm.

-Most home fires start in the kitchen. Make sure you always keep watch over your cooking and that there is a fire extinguisher nearby.

-Have a fire escape plan and review it with your family. Make sure plans meet the needs of those with disabilities, children, and those with mobility issues in the household.

-Know the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning: headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, sleepiness, and confusion. If you suspect CO poisoning, get outside to fresh air immediately, and then call 911.

-Have your home heating systems (including chimneys and vents) inspected and serviced annually by a trained service technician. Never use portable generators inside homes or garages, even if doors and windows are open. Use generators outside only, at least 20 feet away from your home.

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