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1. Why should I have a working smoke alarm?

A properly installed and maintained smoke alarm is the only thing in your home that can alert you and your family to a fire 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Whether you're awake or asleep, a working smoke alarm is constantly on alert, scanning the air for fire and smoke.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, almost 2/3 of home fire deaths resulted from fires in properties without working smoke alarms. A working smoke alarm significantly increases your chances of surviving a deadly home fire. Please call 337-462-8929 for more information.

2. Where should I install smoke alarms?

Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, including the basement. Many fatal fires begin late at night or early in the morning. Install smoke alarms both inside and outside of sleeping areas. Please call 337-462-8929 for more information.

3. How often should I check or replace smoke alarms?

Is your smoke alarm still working? Smoke alarms must be maintained! A smoke alarm with a dead or missing battery is the same as having no smoke alarm at all.

A smoke alarm only works when it is properly installed and maintained. Depending on how your smoke alarm is powered (9-volt, 10 year lithium, or hardwired), you will have to maintain it according to the manufacturer's instructions. Please call 337-462-8929 for more information.

4. What are some general guidelines for smoke alarm maintenance?

Smoke alarm powered by a 9- volt battery:
-Test the alarm monthly.
-Replace the batteries at least once a year.
-The entire smoke alarm unit should be replaced every 8-10 years.

Smoke alarm powered by a 10 year lithium battery (or long-life) battery:
-Test the alarm monthly.
-Since you cannot (and should not) replace the lithium battery, the entire smoke alarm unit should be replaced according to manufacturer's instructions.

Smoke Alarm that is hard wired into the homes electrical system:
-Test the alarm monthly.
-The backup battery should be replaced at least once per year.
-The entire smoke alarm unit should be replaced every 8-10 years.

Please call 337-462-8929 for more information.

5. What should I do if my Smoke Alarm is activated by cooking or shower?

A Smoke alarm is just doing its job when it sounds while you are cooking or taking a shower with lots of steam. If a smoke alarm sounds while you are cooking or taking a shower with lots of steam, do not remove the battery. You should:
-Open a window or door and press the "hush" button.
-Wave a towel at the alarm to clear the air.
-Move the entire alarm several feet away from the location.

Disabling a smoke alarm or removing the battery can be a deadly mistake. Please call 337-462-8929 for more information.

6. I have a fire extinguisher that has been used or it is old. What should I do with it?

Fire Extinguishers that have been used must be serviced by a professional fire extinguisher service company. The internet or telephone directory can be used to find these companies. The department does not refill or replace fire extinguishers. Follow manufacturer's recommendation. Please call 337-462-8929 for more information.

7. How do I get a copy of an Incident Report?

Fire Department Incident reports can be obtained through the Fire Chief's Office located in the City Hall. The office telephone is 337-462-8929.

8. Do I need a burn permit? How do I get one?

If you live within the corporate limits of the City of DeRidder, you must have a burn permit before conducting any open burning. Open burning is considered any fire which flames are readily unobstructed to the atmosphere. Items which are designed for controlled burning do not fall under open burning. An example would be, a bar-b-que pit designed for cooking. Any items not specifically built for controlled burning are subject to the open burning laws. The burning of leaves, processed wood, shingles, wire, or fuel is not allowed. Please contact the Fire Chief Office at 337-462-8929 for a burn permit or for more information.

9. How do I report a leaking fire hydrant?

Please contact the Water Department at 337-462-8900.

10. What is the Fire Insurance Rating Classification for the City of DeRidder?

The current Fire Rating for the city of DeRidder is Class 3. Please call 337-462-8929 for more information.