Smoke detectors are your best protection in a home fire.
Most deaths occur from smoke inhalation and poison gases that rise ahead
of the flames. Many victims suffocate upstairs from downstairs
fires. The worst enemy is smoke. Smoke, heat, and gases can choke and kill
you after a few breaths! If you are caught in smoke, crawl as close to
the floor as possible, because smoke rises.
Two thirds of fires involving a fatality happen in residential buildings
between 8p.m. and 8a.m. when the occupants are more likely to be asleep. The
most dangerous period is 8p.m. to 4a.m. Smoke detectors can prevent
such deaths. They warn before a fire spreads, allowing occupants to escape before being
overcome by smoke and gases.
By properly selecting, placing, testing and maintaining your smoke
detector, you will greatly increase your changes of surviving a home fire.
Detector Selector
When you head to the store, you'll find there are many
different types of detectors on the market. There are battery-operated
detectors and others that run on electricity. There are "ionization"
sensors and "photoelectric" detectors. You can find good, standard
smoke detectors for $10 to $25. There are special detectors for people with
hearing impairments that have both an audible alarm and intense flashing
lights. These are available for around $100 each.
One? Two? Three? More?
The number of detectors you need depends upon the size of your
home. A smoke detector should be placed outside each sleeping area and
on every level of existing homes, including the basement and mechanical areas.
For new homes, National Fire Protection Association guidelines require
builders to install smoke detectors inside each bedroom. On floors without
bedrooms, install detectors in or near living areas, such as dens and living
rooms. Detectors in dining rooms, utility rooms and hallways will provide
added protection.
Put 'em Up
Installing a smoke detector is simple. A screwdriver and
a drill are all you need to install a battery-operated detector. For detectors
that plug into an electrical outlet, be certain to use a restraining device so
the plug cannot be accidentally jarred loose. Detectors can also be hardwired
directly into the home's electrical system. Hardwire installation should be
done by a qualified electrician. Never connect a detector to a circuit that
can be turned off by a wall switch.
Always follow the manufacturer's installation instructions and be sure your
detectors are held securely in place. Because smoke rises, detectors should be
mounted high on a wall of in the ceiling.
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Wall-mounted detectors should be installed so the top is 6 to 12 inches
from the ceiling.
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Ceiling-mounted detectors should be installed at least 6 inches from any
wall.
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If a room has a pitched ceiling, mount the detector at or near the
ceiling's highest point.
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In stairways with no doors at the top or bottom, position detectors in
the path smoke would follow up the stairwell.
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Mount detectors at the bottom of closed stairways, such as those leading
to a basement or mechanical room. Dead air trapped near the door at the
top of a stairway could prevent smoke from reaching a detector located at
the top.
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Don't install a detector too close to windows, doors or forced air
registers, where drafts could interfere with the detector's operation.
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If you have questions about the best places to install detectors,
contact your local fire department for advice. Many departments will
conduct home smoke detector inspections for free.
Don't Shirk the Work
Only properly functioning smoke detectors can protect you.
Make regular maintenance a priority.
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Batteries weaken with age and must be regularly checked and
replaced,
generally every 9 to 12 months. NEVER disable a detector by
"borrowing" its battery for another use!
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Test your smoke detectors at least once a month, following the
manufacturer's instructions. Both battery-operated and electric smoke
detectors become less effective with age. If your detector does not respond
to the recommended test procedure (usually by pressing a "test"
button), change its batteries. If it still does not perform, replace it.
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Clean your smoke detectors following the manufacturer's instructions.
Cobwebs and dust can generally be removed using a vacuum cleaner
attachment. If you are doing work around a detector that could send dust
into the air, cover the detector-- but don't forget to remove the cover
when you're finished. Never paint any part of a smoke detector.
Detect, Protect!
Once your smoke detectors are up and running, make sure
everyone in the household is familiar with the sound of the alarms and that
they can be heard behind closed bedroom doors. Plan escape routes and review
them with all family members. Have at least two ways to get out of every room
in your home. Agree on a meeting place outside your home where everyone can
gather after they escape. Practice your escape.
When an alarm does sound, leave immediately. Go directly to your outside
meeting place. Call the fire department from a neighbor's home if they are within
reasonable distance. Get out and stay out. Never return to a burning building.
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