Checking the Smoke Detectors in Your Gainesville, Florida Apartment

Did you know that it is the landlord’s responsibility to provide smoke detectors in your apartment? And, did you know that it is your responsibility to test your smoke detectors regularly to make sure they are still in good working order?

That’s right, all Gainesville, Florida apartments should be equipped with working smoke detectors. Typically, smoke detectors are located near the kitchen and in or near each bedroom. As a resident, here are some ways you can ensure that your smoke detectors are operational:

• Test your smoke alarms at least once a month by pressing the “Test” button.
• If your smoke alarm fails its test, contact the leasing office.
• Every year, replace the batteries in your smoke detector with brand new batteries.
• Need a strategy to remember? Change the batteries every year when you “spring forward” for Daylight Savings Time.
• If your smoke alarm begins to make a “chirping” sound, it usually means the batteries need to be replaced.

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, about 3,000 people lose their lives each year in residential fires. These fires also cause injuries, property damage, and extreme disruption to the lives of innocent families.

Reduce the chance that you and your neighbors at your Gainesville, Florida apartment community will ever have to experience the devastation of fire. Keep an eye on your smoke alarm and contact your leasing office with any concerns.