Activities and Events

This year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign, “Don’t Wait – Check the Date! Replace Smoke  Alarms Every 10 Years,” represents the final year of our three-year effort to educate the public about basic but essential elements of smoke alarm safety.

Why focus on smoke alarms three years in a row? Because NFPA’s survey data shows that the public has many misconceptions about smoke alarms, which may put them at increased risk in the event of a home fire. For example, only a small percentage of people know how old their smoke alarms are, or how often they need to be replaced.

As a result of those and related findings, we’re addressing smoke alarm replacement this year with a focus on these key messages:

  • Smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years.
  • Make sure you know how old all the smoke alarms are in your home.
  • To find out how old a smoke alarm is, look at the date of manufacture on the back of the alarm; the alarm should be replaced 10 years from that date.

Do you need a new or replacement smoke alarm in your home?

University City Fire Department places or replaces over 500 smoke alarms for University City residents each year. If you need assistance installing the smoke alarm or questions of where to place it in your home, the fire personnel are here to help. Call 314-505-8768 to make an appointment to have a smoke alarm dropped off at your home, installed in your home or to stop by the Engine House to pick one up.