Smoke Detectors

Most fire fatalities occur between 2 a.m. and 6 a.m. - when most people are sleeping. Smoke from a residential fire can quickly kill the occupants. A smoke detector can save those lives.

 

IS ONE SMOKE DETECTOR ENOUGH?
Generally, several detectors are required to provide full protection.  Smoke detectors should be installed on every living level of the home, inside each bedroom, and in the main corridor outside each bedroom area.

WHERE SHOULD I INSTALL DETECTORS?
Install a minimum of two detectors even in single level homes. Install a smoke detector in each bedroom as well as the main corridor outside of the bedroom area. Install a smoke detector above stairwells.

ARE THERE OTHER CONSIDERATIONS?
Mount smoke detectors in the middle of the ceiling, if possible. If not, mount detectors on the wall, at least three feet from a corner and 4-6 inches from the ceiling. Keep detectors away from fans or air ducts.
Avoid placing the detector too close to kitchen stoves and bathroom showers. Mount basement detectors at the bottom of the basement stairwell.

WHAT TYPE OF SMOKE DETECTORS ARE THERE?

There are two basic types of smoke detectors: ionization and photo electronic. Both are effective at detecting fire, yet each has a unique detecting system. Each type of detector comes as AC- operated smoke detectors or battery- powered smoke detectors. Some AC detectors come with a battery back-up system.

HOW DO I MAINTAIN MY SMOKE DETECTORS?

Test your detectors once a week.
Replace the battery in each smoke detector twice a year - use the slogan - "change your clock-change your battery" as a reminder. Never remove the battery unless you are changing batteries.
Clean the detectors at least once a year.

WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I HEAR A SMOKE DETECTOR'S ALARM SOUND?

Never ignore the sound.
Have an escape plan
Feel if the door is hot.
Crawl on the floor.
Meet at a pre-arranged spot outside the home.
Call the fire department from a neighbor's home.
Never go back inside a burning building.

What If I Need A Smoke Detector?

You can go by station #1 and talk with a firefighter there and as long as they have them get one for free.

 

Be Safe - Not Sorry