Smoke Detector Facts & Tips

Smoke detectors save lives – it’s that simple. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), about three out of every five people that perish in a home fire do so in a home either without smoke detectors or without working smoke detectors. In an effort to help remind you why smoke detectors are so important, we’ve put together this handy fact and tip sheet for you to review:

Smoke Detector Facts

Smoke detectors are inexpensive, starting at around $5 per unit. Most smoke detectors last for about a decade. Noting this, there’s really no excuse not to have at least one in your residence.
There are two types of smoke detectors: ionization and photoelectric. The former types detect smoke via change in electric current, while the latter types are activated when light is reflected off of smoke particles that enter it. Both types are effective.
Smoke detectors may run on batteries, via a home or businesses’ electrical system, or a combination of both.

Smoke Detector Tips

It’s recommended that smoke detectors are tested at least once a month and that batteries on applicable units are replaced at least twice a year. The NFPA states that about a quarter of all smoke alarm failures are because of depleted batteries. Don’t just wait until your detector beeps to signify a low battery – be proactive.
For the best protection, it’s recommended that smoke detectors are installed outside of all sleeping areas of the home, as well as on ground floors and in basements.
To ensure an optimum level of protection, install detectors either on the ceiling itself or on the wall no more than a foot below the ceiling level.
To keep your smoke detector in good working shape, take time to clean it or dust it on occasion.
Make sure any smoke detector that you purchase for installation has been certified. Underwriters Laboratories and Factory Mutual are two recognized labs that you should look for on any detector’s label.
Don’t paint the smoke detector. This can compromise its ability to detect smoke.
Last but not least, don’t consider smoke detectors an afterthought. Take care of them and replace them when necessary. Like we said in the opening, smoke detectors save lives.