Smoke Alarm Safety Tips

The United Laboratories have been conducting experiments to show how rapidly a fire can spread in today's home environment. This rapid spread is caused by the proliferation of synthetic materials in our homes. This is why it's important for each resident to have working smoke detectors and to know their escape plan. Find more information on synthetic materials in homes here:

Smoke alarms are a key part of a home fire escape plan. About 3 out of 5 fire deaths happen in homes without smoke alarms, or the alarms are not working. Smoke alarms give you early warning so you can get outside quickly. 

• Install smoke alarms inside and outside each bedroom. Install alarms on every level of the home, including the basement. Large homes may need extra smoke alarms.
• It is best to use interconnected smoke alarms. When one smoke alarm sounds, they all sound.
• Test smoke alarms at least once a month. Press the test button to be sure the alarm is working.
• There are two kinds of alarms. Ionization smoke alarms are quicker to warn about flaming fires. Photoelectric alarms are quicker to warn about smoldering fires. It is best to use both types of alarms in the home.
• A smoke alarm should be on the ceiling or high on a wall. Keep smoke alarms away from the kitchen to reduce false alarms They should be at least 10 feet from the stove.
• People who are hard of hearing or deaf can use special alarms. These alarms have strobe lights and bed shakers
• Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.         
• Sleep with bedroom doors closed. This will help smoke detectors alert you before the smoke reaches your room.   

Fire Safety Tips

• Make a home escape plan. Draw a map of your home showing all doors and windows. Discuss the plan with everyone in your home.
• Know at least two ways out of every room, if possible. Make sure all doors and windows leading outside open easily.
• Have an outside meeting place (like a tree, light pole or mailbox) a safe distance from the home where everyone should meet.
• Practice your home fire drill at night and during the day with everyone in your home, twice a year.
• Practice using different ways out.
• Teach children how to escape on their own in case you can't help them. 

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