Fire Safety & Prevention
Resources
Smoke Alarms: What You
Need to Know
Source:
United States Fire Administration
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. |
