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In the 1960's, the average U. S.
citizen had never heard of a smoke alarm. By 1995, an estimated 93
percent of all American homes - single - and multi- family,
apartments, nursing homes, dormitories, etc. - were equipped with
alarms. By the mid 1980's, 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. 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.
- Simply replace the batteries at
least once 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, 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. |
