Smoke Detectors Can Save Lives

3/19/2018 (Permalink)

Research on fires has demonstrated that fires can spread much more quickly today due to modern furnishings than in the past when more natural materials were used. Due to this it is important to have the right number of smoke alarms that are placed properly throughout your home so you have ample time to escape should a fire happen to you. 

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, three out of five home fire deaths result from fires in properties without working smoke alarms. More than one-third of home fire deaths result from fires in which no smoke alarms are present. The risk of dying in a home fire is cut in half in homes with working smoke alarms.

Here is some useful information when it comes to installing smoke alarms in your home:

• Ideally you should install smoke alarms inside each bedroom and on every level of the home, even the basement
• Smoke alarms should be installed at least 10 feet away from a cooking appliance to minimize false alarms
• Mount smoke alarms high on walls or ceilings
• Installing smoke alarms near windows, door, or ducts may cause drafts to interfere with their operation
• Never paint smoke alarms
• Keep manufacturer's instructions for reference
• Test smoke alarms at least once a month using the test button. If the alarm chirps on a smoke detector with a non-replaceable 10 year battery you need to replace the entire smoke alarm right away. Other smoke detectors need a new battery at least once a year and if they start chirping replace the battery right away.
• Last but not least make sure everyone in your home understands the sound of the smoke alarm and knows what to do in case it sounds