FACTS ABOUT SMOKE DETECTORS

Living in a home without smoke detectors is risky business! When a fire occurs in your home, your chances for survival are two times better when smoke detectors are present than when they are not. Properly installed and maintained smoke detectors provide early warning when fires occur. Early warning increases your chances of survival and allows the fire department to save more of your property.

Safety Tips:

• For minimum protection, install a smoke detector outside of each bedroom or sleeping area in your home, and at least one smoke detector on each level of your home.
• Keep your smoke detectors properly maintained. Test them once a month to ensure that the detectors are working properly. Batteries should be changed at least once a year; twice a year is preferable (when the time changes). Use only the type of batteries recommended for the detector.
• If your smoke detector sounds when no smoke is present, consult with the manufacturer or with your local fire department. If smoke from cooking materials causes the detector to sound an alarm, do not remove the batteries or disconnect the power source. Simply fan the smoke away from the detector until the alarm stops. If this happens frequently, it may be necessary to relocate the detector or to install a different type of detector.
• Develop an escape plan and review the plan with all members of the family frequently. Be aware that children and elderly people may need special assistance should fire occur. Establish a meeting place outside the house for all members of the family to ensure that everyone got out safely. When fire occurs, get out of the house and use a neighbor’s telephone to notify the fire department.

IF YOUR SMOKE DETECTOR DOESN’T WORK PROPERLY, THE SILENCE COULD BE DEADLY.

TEST: Test your smoke detector monthly.

CLEAN: Clean your detector at least once a year. Dust with a vacuum cleaner.

REPLACE: Replace the battery at least annually; twice a year is preferable. A good way to remember is to change the battery in your smoke detectors when you change your clocks in the spring and fall.  Use the battery type listed on the detector.