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Smoke Detectors FAQ
Do smoke detectors make a difference?
In the 1960's, the average U. S. citizen had never heard of a smoke
alarm. By 1995, an estimated 93 percent of all American homes - single -
and multi- family, apartments, nursing homes, dormitories, etc. - were
equipped with alarms. By the mid 1980's, smoke alarm laws, requiring
that alarms be placed in all new and existing residences - existed in 38
states and thousands of municipalities nationwide. And smoke alarm
provisions have been adopted by all of the model building code
organizations.
Fire services across the country have played a major and influential
public education role in alerting the public to the benefits of smoke
alarms. Another key factor in this huge and rapid penetration of both
the marketplace and the builder community has been the development and
marketing of low cost alarms by commercial companies. In the early
1970's, the cost of protecting a three bedroom home with professionally
installed alarms was approximately $l000; today the cost of
owner-installed alarms in the same house has come down to as little as
$10 per alarm, or less than $50 for the entire home.
This cost structure, combined with effective
public education (including key private-public partnerships), has caused
a huge percentage of America's consumers, whether they are renting or
buying, to demand smoke alarm protection. The impact of smoke alarms on
fire safety and protection is dramatic and can be simply stated. When
fire breaks out, the smoke alarm, functioning as an early warning
system, reduces the risk of dying by nearly 50 percent. Alarms are most
people's first line of defense against fire.
In the event of a fire, properly installed and maintained smoke alarms
will provide an early warning signal to your household. This alarm could
save your own life and those of your loved ones by providing the chance
to escape.
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Why should my home have smoke alarms?
In the event of a fire, a smoke alarm can
save your life and those of your loved ones. They are the single most
important means of preventing house and apartment fire fatalities by
providing an early warning signal -- so you and your family can escape.
Smoke alarms are one of the best safety features you can buy and install
to protect yourself, your family and your home.
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Okay, where do I put them?
Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, including the
basement. Many fatal fires begin late at night or in the early morning.
For extra safety, install smoke alarms both inside and outside the
sleeping area. Also, smoke alarms should be installed on the
ceiling or 6 to 8 inches below the ceiling on side walls. Since smoke
and many deadly gases rise, installing your smoke alarms at the proper
level will provide you with the earliest warning possible. Always follow
the manufacturer's installation instructions.
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Where would I get smoke alarms?
Many hardware, home supply or general merchandise stores carry smoke
alarms. Make sure the alarm you buy is UL-listed. If you are unsure
where to buy one in your community, call your local fire department (on
a non-emergency telephone number) and they will provide you with some
suggestions. Some fire departments offer smoke alarms for little or no
cost.
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Are smoke alarms hard to install?
Not a bit. In most cases, all you will need is a screwdriver. Many
brands are self-adhesive and will automatically stick to the wall or
ceiling where they are placed. However, be sure to follow the directions
from the manufacturer because each brand is different. If you are
uncomfortable standing on a ladder, ask a relative or friend for help.
Some fire departments will actually install a smoke alarm in your home
for you. Call your local fire department (again, on a non-emergency
telephone number) if you have problems installing a smoke alarm.
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How do I keep my smoke alarms working?
Smoke alarms are very easy to take care of. There are two steps to
remember.
Step 1
Simply replace the batteries at least once a year.
Tip: Pick a holiday or your birthday and replace the batteries
each year on that day. Some smoke alarms now on the market come with a
ten-year battery. These alarms are designed to be replaced as a whole
unit, thus avoiding the need for battery replacement. If your smoke
alarm starts making a "chirping" noise, replace the batteries and reset
it.
Step 2
Keep them clean. Dust and debris can interfere with their operation, so
vacuum over and around your smoke alarm regularly.
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What if the alarm goes off while I'm cooking?
Then it's doing its job. Do not disable your smoke alarm if it alarms
due to cooking or other non-fire causes. You may not remember to put the
batteries back in the alarm after cooking. Instead, clear the air by
waving a towel near the alarm, leaving the batteries in place. The alarm
may have to be moved to a new location.
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How long will my smoke alarm last?
About eight-to-ten years, after which it should be replaced. Like most
electrical devices, smoke alarms wear out. You may want to write the
purchase date with a marker on the inside of your unit. That way, you'll
know when to replace it. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions
for replacement.
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Anything else I should know?
Some smoke alarms are considered to be "hard wired." This means they are
connected to the household electrical system and may or may not have
battery back-up. It's important to test every smoke alarm monthly. And
always use new batteries when replacing old ones.
Review of smoke alarm installation, safety and maintenance
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Read and follow the manufacturer's
installation and maintenance instructions exactly.
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Install fresh batteries in your smoke
alarms at least once a year.
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Don't allow anyone to disconnect or
"borrow" the batteries from your smoke alarms. A smoke alarm can't
work unless it's connected to a power source.
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If a smoke alarm's warning alarm sounds,
don't panic. Stay close to the floor and get out of the building.
Before opening any doors, check the temperature. If the door feels
hot to the touch, don't open it. Use an alternate exit.
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Free Smoke Detectors
 For more information on how to receive a
free smoke detector or replacement battery for your home, call or stop by the Diamond Lake
Fire Station. While there you can fill out a request form to
schedule home delivery of your free smoke detector or replacement
battery. The phone number at Diamond Lake is 447-5305; our office
hours are
Monday – Friday from 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. 
509-447-5305
South Pend Oreille Fire and Rescue
325272 Hwy. 2
Newport, WA 99156 |
