The Knoxville Fire Department is reminding the community of the importance of checking smoke detectors.

Last week was National Fire Safety Week, which was a way for many local fire departments to visit schools and hold events to talk to the public about fire safety. One of the important aspects of fire safety the Knoxville Fire Department wanted to stress during the week is the importance of smoke detectors. Knoxville Fire Chief Cal Wyman says that it is vital to make sure you are checking the batteries on the detectors, along with the expiration date, because they can sense smoke well before we can. Wyman says his department is always available if someone has questions.

“There is someone here 24/7 365 so if you have a question don’t be afraid to call. We would much rather go out and find a dead battery or a bad detector than the alternative.”

Smoke detectors typically need replacing after ten years.