Smoke alarms may save your life

How important is your smoke alarm? The fact is that 60 percent of all fatal fires occur in homes without a working smoke alarm. Simply stated, when fire breaks out, the smoke alarm functions as an early warning system, reducing your risk of dying by giving you time to alert your loved ones to the fire and get out. Smoke alarms are one of the best safety features you can buy and install to protect yourself, your family and your home.

Put Smoke Alarms

To Work for You

Install smoke alarms on every level of your home. Many fatal fires start late at night or in the early morning. For extra safety, install smoke alarms both inside and outside the sleeping area.

Also, smoke alarms should be installed on the ceiling or on walls 6 to 8 inches below the ceiling. Since smoke and dangerous gases rise, installing your smoke alarms at the proper level will provide you with the earliest warning possible. Each brand is different, so always follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions.

Most hardware, home supply and general merchandise stores carry smoke alarms. Or call your local fire department (on a nonemergency telephone number). Some fire departments offer smoke alarms for little or no cost and will often assist with installation.

Keep Your Smoke Alarms Working

Smoke alarms are very easy to take care of:

•Replace the batteries at least once a year. If your smoke alarm starts making a "chirping" noise, replace the batteries and reset it. Some smoke alarms now come with a 10-year battery. These alarms must be replaced as a whole unit, so there is no need for battery replacement.

•Keep your smoke alarms clean. Dust and debris can interfere with their operation.

If the alarm goes off while you’re cooking, then it’s doing its job. Do not disable your smoke alarm if it’s triggered by cooking or other nonfire causes. 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.

For more information on fire safety topics, visit The United States Fire Administration’s website at www.usfa.fema.gov.

This story provided by North American Precis Syndicate, Inc.