9 Smoke Alarm Safety Tips That Could Save Your Life

4/20/2016 (Permalink)

A smoke detector could save your life.

Smoke Alarms Save Lives

Smoke alarms play a vital role saving lives. According to The Huffington Post, house fires cause approximately 3,000 deaths each year and 40% of those deaths occur in homes that do not have at least one smoke detector installed.

When properly installed, smoke detectors can significantly reduce the chance of death or injury to you and your family. Use the tips below to bring your fire safety to the next level.

Smoke Alarms Come in Two Flavors: You Should Use Both

• Did you know? There are two types of smoke alarms - Ionization and Photoelectric alarms. According to the National Fire Prevention Association: "Ionization smoke alarms are quicker to warn about flaming fires. Photoelectric alarms are quicker to warn about smoldering fires. It is best to use of both types of alarms in the home."

Smoke Alarm Placement: The More (And Higher), The Better

• The National Fire Protection Association recommends smoke alarms be installed in every bedroom, outside all sleeping quarters and on every level of the house, including the basement.
• Smoke alarms should be installed away from the kitchen to prevent false alarms. In most cases, they should be at least 10 feet from a cooking appliance.
• Generally, smoke detectors should be placed high on the wall or on the ceiling, keeping the following factors in mind:

"Proper mounting of a smoke detector also is important. You can mount many detectors by yourself, but those connected to your household wiring should have their own separate circuit and be installed by a professional electrician. If you mount your detector on the ceiling, be sure to keep it at least 18 inches away from dead air space near corners. If you mount it on the wall, place it four to 12 inches below the ceiling and away from corners. Keep them high because smoke rises." (Source: University of Tennessee)

Smoke Alarm Maintenance Tips

• Test smoke alarms at least once a month using the test button.
• Replace batteries in all smoke alarms at least once a year. If an alarm "chirps," the battery is low and should be replaced right away.
• Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.

Have a Fire Emergency Escape Plan

• Smoke alarms work best when paired with a fire escape plan. A plan allows your family, employees or clients to escape quickly and safely in an emergency situation.

If You Are a Business Owner, Consult Your Local Fire Marshall

• While all of these basic rules apply to any smoke alarm installation, business owners should consult the local Fire Marshall to ensure specific building fire codes and smoke detector requirements are met.

Has Your Home Suffered Smoke or Fire Damage?

In the unfortunate event that your home or business suffers fire damage, call SERVPRO® of East Central Morris County at 973-887-9100. We have the specialized fire and water damage equipment and expertise that is needed to help you through a difficult time and get your home or business back on track.