National Fire Prevention Week just concluded, and in observing the occasion, Ohio’s state Fire Marshal Kevin Reardon suggested we should all “Learn the Sounds of Fire Safety.”

One could be forgiven for asking what fire safety sounds like, but Reardon makes a good point.

“It’s important to learn the different sounds of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. When an alarm makes noise–a beeping sound or a chirping sound–you must take action!” Reardon said. “Make sure everyone in the home understands the sounds of the alarms and knows how to respond.

“To learn the sounds of your specific smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, check the manufacturer’s instructions that came in the box, or search the brand and model online.”

Different numbers and volume for beeps and chirps can mean different things for those in a home. An irritating single chirp every 30 to 60 seconds, for example, means the battery in your smoke detector is low. Replace it.

But a continuous set of three loud beeps mean there is smoke or fire. It might be time to get out and call 9-1-1. (“And stay out,” as Reardon’s office reminds us.)

For carbon monoxide alarms, it is four loud beeps to signal carbon monoxide has been detected.

Other chirps can mean the detector itself must be replaced. It is important to know how the safety devices in your home communicate to keep you and your family safe.