Navy Fire and Emergency Services department, in conjunction with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), wants you to check to see if your smoke alarm is outdated as part of the annual Fire Prevention Week Oct. 9-15.

A recent survey conducted by the NFPA revealed only a small percentage of people know how old their smoke alarms are, or how often they need to be replaced.

"That lack of awareness is a concern for Navy Installations Command (NIC) Fire & Emergency Services, NFPA, and fire departments throughout the country," said Carl Glover, director, NIC Fire and Emergency Services. "The reason behind the concern is because smoke alarms don't last forever."

According to NFPA 72, the National Fire Alarm Code®, requires smoke alarms be replaced at least every 10 years; but because the public is generally unaware of this requirement, many homes have smoke alarms past their expiration date, putting people at increased risk.

"Time and again, I've seen the life-saving impact smoke alarms can have in a home fire, but I've also seen the tragedy that can result when smoke alarms aren't working properly," said Glover. "That's why we're making a concerted effort to educate residents about the overall importance of smoke alarms, and that they do have a life limit."

As the official sponsor for more than 90 years, NFPA is promoting this year's Fire Prevention Week campaign, "Don't Wait - Check the Date! Replace Smoke Alarms Every 10 Years," to better educate the public about the critical importance of knowing how old their smoke alarms are and replacing them once they're 10 years old.

"Navy fire departments around the world will be hosting activities in support of Fire Prevention Week," said Glover. "Check with your local Navy fire and emergency services department for a schedule of events."

According to Glover, to find out how old your smoke alarm is and its expiration date, simply look on the back of the alarm where the date of manufacture is marked. The smoke alarm should be replaced 10 years from that date, and not the date of purchase.

Glover also recommends smoke alarms be tested monthly and batteries should be replaced once a year or when they begin to chirp, signaling they're running low.

For more information on smoke alarms and this year's Fire Prevention Week campaign, "Don't Wait - Check the Date! Replace Smoke Alarms Every 10 Years," visit http://www.firepreventionweek.org/.

Navy Installations Command is comprised of about 52,000 military and civilian personnel worldwide and is responsible for the operations, maintenance and quality of life programs in support of the Navy's fleet, Sailors and their families.

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For more news from Commander, Navy Installations Command, visit http://www.navy.mil/ or http://www.cnic.navy.mil.