UFD Faq's

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How many smoke detectors do I need?

If I only have one smoke or carbon monoxide detector, where should I put it?

Do I need a carbon monoxide detector?

What do I do if my carbon monoxide detector goes off?

Can I burn leaves, branches, or other trash?

Can I have a small fire for a cookout?

Should I have my chimney cleaned?

How many smoke detectors do I need?

It is recommended that you have one smoke detector outside each bedroom or sleeping area and one on every level of your home. Detectors should be tested at least monthly. Batteries should be replaced at least once a year.

If I only have one smoke or carbon monoxide detector, where should I put it?

It is best to place detectors near sleeping areas.

Do I need a carbon monoxide detector?

If you have fuel burning appliances it is recommended that you have at least one CO detector. Examples of fuel burning appliances are: gas, propane, or oil furnaces; gas or propane stoves; gas clothes dryers; and kerosene heaters. If you do not have fuel burning appliances, it is still recommended to have a detector. Carbon monoxide is also produced by auto exhaust and wood burning fireplaces.

What do I do if my carbon monoxide detector goes off?

If your CO detector goes off and anyone in the house is experiencing a headache, nausea, or fatigue - CALL 911 AND EVACUATE YOUR HOUSE.

If your detector goes off and no one is ill, refer to your owners manual to determine which type of alarm it is. If it is a battery operated unit, check to see if the alarm is a low battery signal. This is typically indicated by intermittent beeps about a minute apart.

If it's a low level alarm, check to see if any fuel burning appliances are on and make sure a vehicle has not been running in the garage. A vehicle running in front of a garage can also cause CO to enter a home and activate an alarm. If you can't determine the cause, call a service technician or the gas company. The fire department will also come out, non-emergency, to take CO readings.

If it's a mid-level or high level alarm, call the fire department. The fire department will respond and take CO readings. They will also contact the gas company if necessary.

If you have any doubt about what the alarm means or want to have your house inspected, call the fire department.

Can I burn leaves, branches, or other trash?

No. State law prohibits open burning. Lake Twp. collects yard waste and other trash several times a year at the township garage. Further information can be obtained from the Lake Twp. Clerk's office.

Can I have a small fire for a cookout?

Yes. You are normally permitted to have small cooking and recreational fires. These fires must meet size restrictions and only clean, dry wood may be burned. Contact the Fire Prevention Officer at the township clerk's office for more information.

Should I have my chimney cleaned?

It is important to keep your chimney clean. Creosote buildup can lead to chimney fires that can spread to other areas of your house. Inspect your chimney for creosote buildup or have it inspected by a chimney sweep. If the buildup is 1/4 inch or more, you should have your chimney cleaned.

To reduce creosote buildup: Burn only dry seasoned wood. Avoid slow burning, smoky fires. Inspect your chimney and have it cleaned as needed.

If you do have a chimney fire, call the fire department, close the fireplace doors if safe to do so and evacuate your house.