Smoke Detectors


		19 Rosemont Boulevard White Plains, NY 10607 914- 949 -2828

Last update:

07/29/2006

Smoke Alarms Save Lives !

A working smoke alarm is, by far, the single most important device which you can have in your home to prevent fire tragedy. Minutes and even seconds can make the difference between life and death, and It CAN Happen To You!

This is a simple message, but we continue to see fire deaths occur in homes with NO WORKING SMOKE ALARMS!

If your smoke alarm sounds, alert all other occupants and LEAVE THE AREA IMMEDIATELY!, Every second counts, so don't waste time collecting valuables or getting dressed.

Smoke alarms should be installed on the ceiling or 6 to 8 inches below the ceiling on side walls. Since smoke and many deadly gases rise, installing your smoke alarms at the proper level will provide you with the earliest warning possible. Always follow the manufacturer's installation instructions.

Two Types

There has been some controversy in the recent past about the effectiveness of some types of smoke alarms. The two major types are Ionization and Photoelectric.

Power Supply

Both type of alarms can be either battery operated or hardwired into your home's electrical system. It is recommended that, for battery operated units, that only fresh alkaline batteries be used and that they be replaced at least once per year.

Ionization Alarms

These are the alarms that you are most likely to have installed in your home. Ionization type smoke alarms react more quickly to a free burning fire, such as a pot of grease or a wastepaper basket on fire. They are usually inexpensive and provide a good degree of protection. Several studies have shown that these type of alarms may be slow to react to a smoldering type of fire, such as a cigarette left in a couch.

Photoelectric Alarms

These alarms are less common than the ionization type, and are generally regarded to be more effective in detecting a smoldering type of fire. They are generally not as quick to react to a free burning fire situation, and are a little more expensive to purchase.

Combination ionization and photoelectric alarms are also available, but may be more difficult to find.

Ask your retailer for help in finding a specific type.

Testing and Maintenance

	Smoke alarms should be tested and maintained in conformance with the manufactures instructions. We suggest that smoke alarms be tested at least monthly by carefully introducing smoke to the alarm. Some safe sources of smoke are a cigarette, a smoldering piece of cotton string, or an aerosol product specifically intended for this purpose.
	The smoke alarm should be provided with a new battery at least once per year under normal operating conditions. Alarms should also be kept clean and free of dust by using compressed air or a vacuum cleaner hose to clean the openings around the perimeter of the alarm.
	After installing a new battery or cleaning the alarm, it should be tested.