|
|
Smoke Alarms
Winter Fire Safety Tips | Winter Storm Fire Safety Tips | Summer Storm Fire Safety Tips
Smoke Alarms
SMOKE ALARMS
What You Need to Know
The Impact of Smoke Alarms
In the 1960's, the average U. S. citizen had never heard of a smoke alarm. By
1995, an estimated 93 percent of all American homes - single - and multi-
family, apartments, nursing homes, dormitories, etc. - were equipped with
alarms. By the mid 1980's, smoke alarm laws, requiring that alarms be placed in
all new and existing residences - existed in 38 states and thousands of
municipalities nationwide. And smoke alarm provisions have been adopted by all
of the model building code organizations.
Fire services across the country have played a major and influential public
education role in alerting the public to the benefits of smoke alarms. Another
key factor in this huge and rapid penetration of both the marketplace and the
builder community has been the development and marketing of low cost alarms by
commercial companies. In the early 1970's, the cost of protecting a three
bedroom home with professionally installed alarms was approximately $l000; today
the cost of owner-installed alarms in the same house has come down to as little
as $10 per alarm, or less than $50 for the entire home. This cost structure,
combined with effective public education (including key private-public
partnerships), has caused a huge percentage of America's consumers, whether they
are renting or buying, to demand smoke alarm protection. The impact of smoke
alarms on fire safety and protection is dramatic and can be simply stated. When
fire breaks out, the smoke alarm, functioning as an early warning system,
reduces the risk of dying by nearly 50 percent. Alarms are most people's first
line of defense against fire.
In the event of a fire, properly installed and maintained smoke alarms will
provide an early warning signal to your household. This alarm could save your
own life and those of your loved ones by providing the chance to escape.
Why should my home have smoke alarms?
In the event of a fire, a smoke alarm can save your life and those of your
loved ones. They are the single most important means of preventing house and
apartment fire fatalities by providing an early warning signal -- so you and
your family can escape. Smoke alarms are one of the best safety features you can
buy and install to protect yourself, your family and your home.
Okay, where do I put them?
Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, including the basement.
Many fatal fires begin late at night or in the early morning. For extra safety,
install smoke alarms both inside and outside the sleeping area.
Also, smoke alarms should be installed on the ceiling or 6 to 8 inches below
the ceiling on side walls. Since smoke and many deadly gases rise, installing
your smoke alarms at the proper level will provide you with the earliest warning
possible. Always follow the manufacturer's installation instructions.
Where would I get smoke alarms?
Many hardware, home supply or general merchandise stores carry smoke alarms.
Make sure the alarm you buy is UL-listed. If you are unsure where to buy one in
your community, call your local fire department (on a non-emergency telephone
number) and they will provide you with some suggestions. Some fire departments
offer smoke alarms for little or no cost.
Are smoke alarms hard to install?
Not a bit. In most cases, all you will need is a screwdriver. Many brands are
self-adhesive and will automatically stick to the wall or ceiling where they are
placed. However, be sure to follow the directions from the manufacturer because
each brand is different. If you are uncomfortable standing on a ladder, ask a
relative or friend for help. Some fire departments will actually install a smoke
alarm in your home for you. Call your local fire department (again, on a
non-emergency telephone number) if you have problems installing a smoke alarm.
How do I keep my smoke alarms working?
Smoke alarms are very easy to take care of. There are two steps to remember.
- Simply replace the batteries at least once a year.
Tip: Pick a holiday or your birthday and replace the batteries each
year on that day. Some smoke alarms now on the market come with a ten-year
battery. These alarms are designed to be replaced as a whole unit, thus
avoiding the need for battery replacement. If your smoke alarm starts making
a "chirping" noise, replace the batteries and reset it.
- Keep them clean. Dust and debris can interfere with their operation, so
vacuum over and around your smoke alarm regularly.
What if the alarm goes off while I'm cooking?
Then it's doing its job. Do not disable your smoke alarm if it alarms due to
cooking or other non-fire causes. You may not remember to put the batteries back
in the alarm after cooking. Instead, clear the air by waving a towel near the
alarm, leaving the batteries in place. The alarm may have to be moved to a new
location.
How long will my smoke alarm last?
About eight-to-ten years, after which it should be replaced. Like most
electrical devices, smoke alarms wear out. You may want to write the purchase
date with a marker on the inside of your unit. That way, you'll know when to
replace it. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for replacement.
Anything else I should know?
Some smoke alarms are considered to be "hard wired." This means
they are connected to the household electrical system and may or may not have
battery back-up. It's important to test every smoke alarm monthly. And always
use new batteries when replacing old ones.
Top ^
|
|
