Proper Use of Smoke Alarms

3/22/2017 (Permalink)

SMOKE ALARMS ARE A KEY PART

of a home fire escape plan. When there is

a fire, smoke spreads fast. Working smoke

alarms give you early warning so you can

get outside quickly.

SAFETY TIPS

•  Install smoke alarms inside and outside each

bedroom and sleeping area. Install alarms on every

level of the home. Install alarms in the basement.

•  Large homes may need extra smoke alarms.

•  It is best to use interconnected smoke alarms.

When one smoke alarm sounds they all sound.

•  Test all smoke alarms at least once a month. Press

the test button to be sure the alarm is working.

•  There are two kinds of alarms. Ionization smoke

alarms are quicker to warn about flaming fires.

Photoelectric alarms are quicker to warn about

smoldering fires. It is best to use both types of

alarms in the home.

•  A smoke alarm should be on the ceiling or high on

a wall. Keep smoke alarms away from the kitchen to

reduce false alarms. They should be at least 10 feet

(3 meters) from the stove.

•  People who are hard-of-hearing or deaf can use

special alarms. These alarms have strobe lights and

bed shakers.

•  Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years

Old.