|
SMOKE DETECTORS
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.
-
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.
Helpful 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.
|