Staff Report
With Daylight Saving Time arriving last week, Batesville Fire Department Chief Tim Taylor
issued his semi-annual call for all city residents to check and test the smoke alarms in their
houses and places of business.
“It seems like such a simple thing that it’s easy to overlook,” Taylor said. “But it is still one of
the best things anyone can do to protect themselves and their loved ones from fire danger.”
State Fire Marshal and Insurance Commissioner Mike Chaney agreed, saying, “So far, there have
been 29 fire deaths in 2024. In 17 of those fires, there were no working smoke alarms in the
home. If you need a smoke alarm but can’t afford to buy one, please call your local fire
department. They may be able to install alarms for free.”
The Mississippi State Fire Marshal’s Office recommends the following safety tips:
· Test smoke alarms at least once a month using the test button.
· Make sure everyone in the home understands the sound of the smoke
alarm and knows how to respond.
· Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.
· Replace the smoke alarm immediately if it doesn’t respond properly when
tested.
· Smoke alarms should be placed in every sleeping area and common
hallways and on every level of the home.
o Large homes may need extra smoke alarms.
o A smoke alarm should be on the ceiling or high on a wall.
o Keep smoke alarms away from the kitchen to reduce false alarms.
They should be at least 10 feet from the stove.
· Create an escape plan and make sure all family members know where to
meet once out of the home.