Change you Clock, Change your Smoke
Detector Battery!
At the beginning of Daylight Saving Time, remember to change the batteries in all of your smoke alarms on the
same day you “spring forward.”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.
It is an unfortunate misconception that people will awaken at the
sound or smell of a fire. This is sadly untrue. Oxygen deprived
environments, gasses from smoke and burning items affect our ability
to react “normally” even if we are light sleepers. Smoke alarms
detect smoke in the early stages, giving you and your family the
early warning you'll need to get out safely.
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 areas. 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. Smoke detectors sold commercially (packaged) have
written and drawn directions on how and where to install smoke
detectors.
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. Call us (non-emergency at 838-1170) if
you need help finding someone to install your smoke detectors.
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. We always
recommend this occur at the same time you change your clocks for
daylight saving time. Meanwhile, if your smoke alarm starts making a
"chirping" noise, replace the batteries right away. Also, keep your
smoke detector clean—dust and debris can interfere with its
operation, so vacuum over and around your smoke alarm regularly.
Smoke detector “maintenance” should become a regular maintenance
item in your household such as regularly cleaning lint from your
dryer.
How often should I check my smoke alarm?
Fire officials and smoke detectors manufacturers recommend that
smoke alarms be checked monthly.
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?
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. Generally speaking,
smoke detectors last about eight to ten years, after which they
should be replaced
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. As with regular smoke detectors, it is
important to test the smoke alarm monthly.
Click here for
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