Smoke Alarms: What You Need to Know

The Impact of Smoke Alarms

  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.

  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.

  Although one smoke detector can save your life, the National Fire Protection Association National Fire Alarm Code (NFPA 72) says homes must have smoke alarms outside each bedroom and sleeping area and on every level of your home, including the basement. For floor without bedrooms, install alarms in or near dens, living rooms, family rooms, and other living areas.

  Because many fatal fires begin late at night or in the early morning and if you sleep with your door closed, it is recommend that you install smoke alarms both inside and outside the sleeping area.

  Since smoke and deadly gases rise, alarms should be placed on the ceiling at least 4 inches from the nearest wall, or high on a wall, 4-12 inches from the ceiling. This 4-inch minimum is important to keep alarms out of possible "dead air" spaces, because hot air is turbulent and may bounce so much it misses spots near a surface. Installing alarms near a window, door or fireplace is not recommended because drafts could detour smoke away from the unit. In rooms where the ceiling has an extremely high point, such as in vaulted ceilings, mount the alarm at or near the ceiling's highest point.

  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, Memphis residents can call the Memphis Fire Department at 320-5401 and they will provide you with information.
Be sure to ask about the FREE smoke alarm program.

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.
Memphis residents can call the Memphis Fire Department at 320-5401 and ask about the FREE smoke alarm program.

Free Smoke Alarm Form Now Online

  Smoke alarms are very easy to take care of. There are two steps to remember.

1. It is recommended that you test your smoke alarm once a month by pushing the test button and replace your smoke alarm battery twice a year. The best time to replace the battery is when you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time.
     Tip: 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.
   

2.   Keep them clean. Dust and debris can interfere with their operation, so vacuum over and around your smoke alarm regularly.

  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.

  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.

  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.

Information Provided By:
The United States Fire Administration
Office of Fire Management Programs