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 Numerous studies and statistics have shown 3 indisputable facts:
- Two-thirds of our nation's fire deaths happen in the victim's own home.
- Most deaths occur from inhaling smoke or poisonous gases, not from the flames.
- Smoke alarms save lives.
It's that simple
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Types of alarms
There are two basic type of smoke alarms:
- Ionization alarms - Ionization alarms contain radioactive material (a very small amount that is not dangerous) that ionizes the air, making an electrical path. When smoke enters,
the smoke molecules attach themselves to the ions. The change in electric current flow triggers the alarm.
- Photo-electric alarms - These type of alarms contain a light source (usually a bulb) and a photocell, which is activated by light. Light from the bulb reflects off the smoke
particles and is directed towards the photocell. The photocell then is activated to trigger the alarm.
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Placement of alarms
- Sleeping areas need the most protection. Place a smoke alarm outside each sleeping area ( inside as well if members of the household sleep with the door closed ).
- Alarms should be installed in or near living areas such as living rooms, dens, or family rooms.
- Smoke alarms are not recommended for kitchens.
- Keep the alarm away from fireplaces and wood stoves to avoid false alarms.
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Installation
- Alarms should be kept at least eighteen inches away from dead air space near walls and corners.
- Wall mounted alarms six to twelve inches below the ceiling and away from corners.
- Never place them any closer than three feet from an air register that might recirculate smoke.
- Don't place near doorways or windows ( drafts could impair operation ).
- Don't place them on an uninsulated exterior wall or ceiling. Temperature extremes can affect the batteries.
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