Smoke
Detectors
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.
Reprinted from the United States Fire
Administration web page.
www.usfa.fema.com
