This safety pamphlet details just how important smoke detectors are and directs readers how to properly place, clean, and maintain their alarms. Working smoke alarms are the first step in making sure that homes are fire safe. However, many homes do not have working smoke alarms. Three out of five residential fire deaths occur in homes without working smoke alarms.

The pamphlet begins by noting that home fires can spread with deadly speed. A typical living room fire can cause life threatening conditions in nearby bedrooms in as little as two minutes. And as many fatal home fires happen while people are asleep, it’s crucial that working smoke alarms are in place to wake residents and give them time to safely escape.

Smoke alarms typically come in two varieties: ionization and photoelectric.

Ionization alarms are best at detecting fas moving fires, while photoelectric alarms can detect smoke from a smoldering fire before flames appear. Because either type of fire may occur in a household, it’s a good idea to have a combination of ionization and photoelectric alarms or dual sensor alarms, which combine both technologies.

Another good course of action is to use interconnected smoke alarm systems. These alarms communicate with each other, so that if one alarm sounds, they all go off.

The proper placement of smoke alarms is another critical part of keeping homes safe. Alarms should be placed on the ceiling, 4 to 12 inches from the wall, or high on the wall, 4 to 12 inches from the ceiling. Keep them out of corners and away from vents, windows, and doors.

Place smoke detectors on every floor of the home. Including the basement, outside of sleeping areas, and in each bedroom. To prevent false alarms, they should not be installed in the kitchen, bathroom, garage, or workshop. Cooking fumes, air particles, or steam can trigger the alarm or damage the unit’s detector.

In conclusion, the handout discusses how to test and maintain smoke alarms. Test smoke alarms every month and replace the batteries twice a year. When it comes to home fires, being prepared and taking precautions can mean the difference between life and death.

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This pamphlet is also available in Spanish.

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