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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, (but is best installed on
ceiling since smoke rises.) 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.
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Simply
replace the batteries at least twice 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 maximum , 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.
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