SMOKE DETECTORS SAVE LIVES

These small but effective devices are a vital early-warning system in both the workplace and the home. While it is important to have smoke detectors installed in both locations, it is three times more critical to have functioning detectors in the home. Each year, more than three-quarters of the 4,500 fire-related deaths occur in the home. Tragically, children under age 5 die at twice the rate of all others.

Most fatal home fires occur at night, when occupants are asleep. Contrary to common belief, the smell of smoke may not always wake a sleeping person. Poisonous gases and smoke can numb the senses, putting a person into a deeper sleep. A small, inexpensive smoke detector, working properly, provides a wake-up alarm and can reduce the risk of death by nearly 50%.

PLACEMENT OF SMOKE DETECTORS

Residences should have a smoke detector outside each sleeping area and on every level, including the basement. In new construction, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) requires a smoke detector in each sleeping room. On floors without bedrooms, detectors should be installed within or near living areas. NFPA also suggests placing detectors in dining rooms, furnace rooms, and bonus rooms. Be aware that if you install these devices in kitchens, broiler or cooking fumes may cause frequent false alarms. They should be installed high up on walls or on the ceiling. Since smoke rises, the first place it will be detected is near the ceiling.

Smoke detectors are especially important in workplaces that are remote from fire departments or do not have sprinklers or other fire suppression systems. In these cases, detectors provide the primary warning for evacuation and emergency response.

MAINTENANCE, INSPECTION, AND REPLACEMENT

Smoke detectors must be properly maintained to provide life-saving warnings. Manufacturers recommend testing detectors monthly using the test button. Replace batteries at least once a year, unless the device is hard-wired. A good time for battery replacement is when you change your clocks to Daylight Saving Time or on January 1. Any detector more than 10 years old should be replaced.

How long has it been since you've tested your home smoke detectors, and changed batteries?