The majority of deadly
fires in the home occur between 12 midnight and 8 a.m. Many
people who die in fires die from breathing in the poisonous
gases and smoke. A smoke alarm acts as your nose at night to
detect smoke. Smoke alarms are designed to provide early
warning if installed and maintained according to the owner’s
manual. Where to install smoke alarms
- One on
every level of the home.
- One in
every sleeping area and in all bedrooms.
- In
hallways near sleeping areas and storage areas.
- Follow the
user’s manual which is included with your smoke alarm.
Remember, smoke, heat and gases rise. Smoke alarms on
the ceiling should not be closer than 4 inches to any
wall or corner. Wall mounted smoke alarms should be at
least 4 inches but no more than 12 inches from the
ceiling.
Locations to avoid
placement
- Kitchens,
garages (poor ventilation).
- Very damp
or steamy area (bathrooms and showers).
- Very
dusty or greasy areas.
- Close to a
ceiling fan or near air vents.
What kind of smoke
alarm is best?
- Look for
the Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL) Mark or Factory
Mutual (FM) approved symbol on the unit or box.
- Battery
operated provides protection if the batteries are fresh
and correctly installed.
- Hard wired
permanently wired into the homes electrical system. It
may also have a battery backup in case of a power
failure.
Smoke alarms have a
limited life!
- Your smoke
alarm unit should be replaced immediately if it is not
operating properly. It is recommended you replace a
smoke alarm after 10 years.
How to keep a smoke
alarm working
- Smoke
alarms should be tested once a month.
- Batteries
should be changed yearly.
- If your
alarm is making a chirping noise it needs a new battery.
- Keep your
smoke alarm clean; vacuum it at least once a month.
- Never
paint a smoke alarm.
Make A Plan
- Make sure
everyone knows what your smoke alarm sounds like.
- Have a
plan with two ways out of each room and practice it!
- Have a
safe meeting place.
- Call
9-1-1 from a safe phone.
- Once you
are outside of the house,STAY OUT. NEVER go back inside.
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