A reminder to check batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors when turning back the clocks this Saturday in observance of Daylight Saving Time.
PROTECT YOURSELF AND YOUR FAMILY TODAY
In the event of a fire, properly install and maintained smoke alarms will provide an early warning alarm to your household. This alarm could save your own life and knows both your loved ones by providing the chance to escape.
***Your Smoke Alarm Quiz***
The Smoke Alarms In My Home:
Are installed on every level especially near sleeping areas?
Are tested once a month?
Have their batteries replaced with new ones at least once a year? We recommend that you change your batteries when you set your clocks in the Spring and again in the Fall.
Are vacuum over and kept free of dust?
Have their batteries replaced and are retested, should they start making a “chirping noise?”
Are replaced with new smoke alarms smoke alarms every 10 years?
DID YOU ANSWER “NO” TO ANY OF THE QUESTIONS?
If so, keep reading to learn answers to most common questions about life-saving smoke alarms.
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 features you can buy and install to protect yourself, your family, and your home.
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 sleeping areas.
Also, smoke alarm should be installed at ceilings or above eye level on the walls. Since smoke and many deadly gases rise, install your smoke alarms at the proper level will provide with the earliest warning possible. Always follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
WHERE WOULD I GET SMOKE ALARMS?
Many hardware stores, home supply, or general merchandise stores carry smoke alarms. 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.
ARE SMOKE ALARMS HARD TO INSTALL?
Not a bit. In most cases all you need is a screwdriver. Many brands are self-adhesive and will automatically stick to the wall or ceiling where their placed. However, be sure to follow the directions from manufacture because each brand is different. If you're uncomfortable standing on a ladder, ask a relative or friend to for help.
HOW DO I KEEP MY SMOKE ALARM WORKING?
Smoke alarms are very easy to take care of. There are two steps to remember:
Simply replace the batteries twice a year. Tip: Change the batteries when you set your clocks in the Spring and in the Fall. Some smoke alarms 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 better replacement. If your smoke alarm starts making a “chirping” noise, replaced the batteries and retest it.
Keep them clean. Dust and debris can interfere with their operation, so vacuum over and around your smoke alarm regularly.
WHAT IF THE ALARM GOES OFF WHEN I’M COOKING?
Then it's doing its job, do not disable your smoke alarm if it alarm 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.
HOW LONG WILL MY SMOKE ALARM LAST?
About eight-to-ten years, after which they should be replaced. Like most electronic devices smoke alarms wear out. You may want to write to purchase date on with a marker on the inside of you unit. That way, you'll know when to replace it. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for replacement.
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-ups. It's important to test every smoke alarm monthly. And always use new batteries when replacing old ones.
For More Information On this Subject and Other Related Subjects Go To The United States Fire Administration.
(The usual disclaimers: I am not a journalist; This is a blog that expresses an outlook and is not conclusive in any shape or manner.)
