| Smoke Alarms/Detectors Save Lives! |
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Smoke detectors are devices that are mounted on the wall or ceiling and
automatically sound a warning when they sense smoke or other products
of combustion. When people are warned early enough about a fire, they
can escape before it spreads. Prices start at about $6 and up.
Every year thousands of people die from fires in the home. Fire kills an
estimated 4,000 Americans every year. Another 30,000 people are seriously
injured by fire each year. Property damage from fire costs us at least $11.2
billion yearly. Most fire victims feel that fire would "never happen to them."
Although we like to feel safe at home, about two-thirds of our nation's fire deaths
happen in the victim's own home. The home is where we are at the greatest risk and
where we must take the most precautions. Most deaths occur from inhaling smoke or
poisonous gases, not from the flames.
Most fatal fires occur in residential buildings between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m.
when occupants are more likely to be asleep. More than 90 percent of fire
deaths in buildings occur in residential dwellings.
A Johns Hopkins University study, funded by the United States Fire
Administration, found that 75 percent of residential
fire deaths and 84 percent of residential fire injuries could have
been prevented by smoke detectors.
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| There are two basic type of smoke detectors: |
- Ionization detectors - Ionization detectors contain radioactive material 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. The radioactive material is
called americium. It's a radioactive metallic element produced
by bombardment of plutonium with high energy neutrons. The
amount is very small and not harmful.
- Photo-electric detectors - These type of detectors 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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| Choosing a smoke detector! |
When choosing a smoke detector, there are several things to consider.
Think about which areas of the house you want to protect, where fire
would be most dangerous, how many you will need, etc.
The Mexico Volunteer Fire Department recomends that every home have a smoke detector outside each
sleeping area (inside as well if members of the household sleep with the door closed) and on every
level of the home, including the basement. The National Fire Alarm code requires a smoke
detector inside each sleeping area for new construction. On floors without bedrooms, detectors
should be installed in or near living areas, such as dens, living rooms or family rooms. Smoke
detectors are not recommended for kitchens.
The safest bet is to have both kinds or a combination detector with a battery back up.
Be sure to check for a testing laboratory label on the detector. It means that samples
of that particular model have been tested under operating conditions. Check to see if
it is easy to maintain and clean. Be sure bulbs and batteries are easy to purchase and
convenient to install.
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| Installation |
The placement of smoke detectors is very important. Sleeping areas need the most protection. One
detector in a short hallway outside the bedroom area is usually adequate. Hallways longer than
30 feet should have one at each end. For maximum protection, install a detector in each bedroom.
Be sure to keep the detector away from fireplaces and wood stoves to avoid false alarms. Place
smoke detectors at the top of each stairwell and at the end of each long hallway. Smoke rises
easily through stairwells. If you should put a smoke detector in your kitchen, be sure to keep it
away from cooking fumes or smoking areas.
Proper mounting of a smoke detector also is important. You can mount many detectors by yourself,
but those connected to your household wiring should have their own separate circuit and be
installed by a professional electrician. If you mount your detector on the ceiling, be sure to
keep it at least 18 inches away from dead air space near walls and corners. If you mount it on
the wall, place it 4 to 12 inches below the ceiling and away from corners. Keep them high
because smoke rises.
Never place them any closer than three feet from an air register that might recirculate smoke.
Don't place them near doorways or windows where drafts could impair the detector operation.
Don't place them on an uninsulated exterior wall or ceiling. Temperature extremes can affect
the batteries.
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| Maintenance |
Keeping smoke detectors in good condition is easy. Always follow the manufacturer's
instructions. Be sure to replace the batteries every year or as needed. Most models
will make a chirping, popping or beeping sound when the battery is losing its charge.
When this sound is heard, install a fresh battery, preferably an alkaline type.
 Replace bulbs every three years or as needed. Keep extras handy. Check the smoke detector
every 30 days by releasing smoke or pushing the test button. Clean the detector face and
grillwork often to remove dust and grease. Never paint a smoke detector as it will hamper
its function. Check your detector if you've been away from home.
If you're looking for a novel gift for somebody, consider giving them a smoke detector. It's
an interesting gift that can save lives and it shows that you care.
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