4 Tips About Smoke Detectors

6/3/2021 (Permalink)

Smoke detectors are very important to keep you and your family safe.

How often do you think about your smoke alarms, and do you have multiple alarms? A fire alarm is an essential piece of safety equipment, but many American households do not have an adequate number of devices in working order. If you are not aware of the current state of your alarms or are unsure of the number you should have for your home, contact the fire department or a fire restoration service in Salt Lake City, UT. However, to make the process easier, you can follow the four tips below.

4 Things to Know About Smoke Detectors

1. Number of Smoke Detectors Needed

Preventing extensive smoke damage is about early disaster intervention, meaning immediate response to a house fire. The best way to ensure the fastest response time is to have the appropriate number of smoke alarms for your home. The basic rule is to have at least one smoke alarm in every bedroom, outside sleeping areas, and on every floor of the home. For a two-story, three-bedroom home, that would mean a minimum of three alarms.

2. Average Lifespan of Detectors

A fire alarm does not have the same lifespan as your roof or some appliances. Most alarms have a maximum usable lifespan of between eight and 10 years. It is a good idea to put a date on detectors or set notifications on your phone or calendars as reminders.

3. Types of Detectors

Fire damage can occur during fast-moving fires or slow, smoldering fires. There are different devices to alert you to which type of fire you are dealing with. An ionization alarm reacts quickly to flaming or fast-moving blazes. A photoelectric alarm is quicker to sense smoldering or smoky fires. You should have each type in your home or look for combination detectors.

4. Emergency Escape Plan

Did you know you likely only have about three to four minutes to escape a house fire? Because of changes in furniture and construction, house fires can spread more quickly than ever before. Make sure you have a practiced fire escape plan.

A fire alarm can save your life. Make sure you have enough for your home to protect your family.