Clay County Firefighters Urge Proper Smoke Detector Maintenance After Surge in False Alarms

HAYESVILLE, N.C. — Clay County Fire and Rescue has responded to 20 false alarm calls in the past two months caused by faulty smoke or carbon monoxide detectors, the department reported on social media. The calls, often triggered by low batteries, have prompted firefighters to remind residents to regularly maintain their detectors.

The department recommends testing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors monthly and replacing batteries every six months to prevent unnecessary emergency responses, particularly in the early morning hours.

“We absolutely love meeting the members of our community, but ideally not at 3 a.m. because your smoke detector needs new batteries,” the department stated in a lighthearted social media post.

For residents without detectors, unsure of their devices’ functionality, or needing assistance with battery replacement, Clay County Fire and Rescue offers free inspections and installations. Requests can be submitted through the department’s website at www.clayncfire.org.

The department emphasized the importance of functional detectors in preventing fire-related injuries and deaths, urging residents to prioritize routine maintenance to ensure their safety.