Two-thirds of all fires involving fatalities happen in homes between the hours of 8 pm and 8 am. Three-fifths of America's home fire fatalities occur in homes without smoke detectors. A smoke detector cannot save your life if it is not working.
- Dead, missing or disconnected batteries are the principle cause of non-working detectors
- Test once a month (replace any battery too weak to sound the alarm)
- Heed the warning, when the detector chirps the battery is low
- Replace the batteries twice per year on the same date (pick two special days so you will remember to replace the batteries)
- Nothing lasts forever, after 10 years replace it
Dealing with False Alarms
- DO NOT disconnect the detector, RELOCATE IT
- If false alarms persist, replace the detector (try a different manufacturer)
Types of Smoke Detectors
- There are basically two types, ionization (most common) and photoelectric
- Any approved type will work
How Many Do I Need?
- Inside and outside each sleeping area on each level, including the basement
- For hearing impaired you can obtain detectors with flashing lights
- Required smoke detectors must be hard-wired, battery backup, and interconnected - That way when one detector is activated all detectors will sound
Where Do I Install My Detector?
- Wall mounted units should be installed within the top 6 to 12 inches from the ceiling
- Ceiling mounted units at least 6 inches from the nearest wall
- Do not mount near registers, doors, windows, or ceiling fans