Prince George, B.C. – Prince George Fire Rescue has some tips for seniors who have a hard time picking up the high pitched sound of fire alarms.

Fire Prevention Captain Marcel Profeit says it’s a common concern but notes there are remedies available to combat the problem.

“They do make accessories for the smoke alarms and what usually happens is that they are in addition to a high pitched smoke alarm which activates the accessory.”

He says that could include a low pitch or a variable pitch alarm or pillow or bed shakers.

“What happens is the smoke alarm rings, the high pitch activates the shaker, which hopefully wakes them up.”

In addition Profeit says there are strobe lights you can put by your bed so that when the alarm rings, the strobe starts to flash.

He says all aforementioned accessories are made by a number of different manufacturers and available by using a quick google search.

The tips are all a part of Fire Prevention Week which is taking place right now throughout North America.

Profeit says the message this week is working smoke alarms save lives.

“Make sure you test your alarm monthly. Give that button a press and make sure they’re working. Check your batteries at minimum once a year and make sure it wakes everyone up in the house, especially at night.”

He admits it’s heartbreaking when people don’t take these common sense tips to heart.

“We’ve seen alarms that have been removed, have the batteries taken out and be used for something else. The whole gamut of sad situations.”