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	THE IMPORTANCE OF SMOKE DETECTORS
	Contrary to popular belief, the smell of smoke may not wake a sleeping person. The poisonous gases produced by a fire can numb the senses quickly and put you into a deeper sleep. By sounding an alarm and alerting you to a fire in time to escape, a smoke detector can save the lives of all family members.

	Be sure the smoke detector bears the label of approval from an independent testing laboratory. Both ionizing and photoelectric devices give adequate protection, but photoelectric devices are preferred because they don't emit as much radiation as ionizing models.

	If you select a plug-in smoke detector, add a restraining device so the plug cannot be pulled out. Never connect a detector to an electrical circuit that can be turned off at a wall switch.

	Install smoke detectors outside bedrooms and make sure they can be heard inside the rooms when the doors are closed. In addition, install detectors on every level of your home, including the basement. For added protection, consider putting detectors in the dinning room, furnace area, utility room, hallways, and in each bedroom. Smoke detectors are not recommended for the kitchen, attic, and garage. Instead, consider installing heat detectors in these areas.

	If a family member is hearing-impaired, install an additional detector inside the person's bedroom. Smoke detectors specially for the hearing-impaired flash a light in addition to sounding an alarm.

	Clean your smoke detectors according to the manufacturer's instructions; dust and cobwebs can reduce a detector's sensitivity to smoke. Never paint a smoke detector.

	Test all smoke detectors every week or so, and replace batteries as needed (at least once a year) or according to the manufactures instructions. Don't allow family members to "borrow" batteries from a smoke detector.

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DISCLAIMER: The information provided on this site is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition. The information is provided for educational purposes only.

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