Smoke Detectors
Over 4,000 people die every year in residential fires in the United States. Most fatal home fires occur between 8:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. while residents are asleep. A smoke detector buys valuable time. As soon as it senses smoke, an alarm automatically sounds, allowing residents a chance to get out before toxic fumes accumulate to lethal levels.
Smoke detectors should be installed on each level of the house, in all bedrooms, and in hallways close to sleeping areas. Never place a smoke detector on an un-insulated wall or ceiling. Remember to...
- Test your smoke detector at least once a month by pressing the test button.
- Replace worn batteries immediately or at least once a year.
- Never borrow smoke detector batteries for other uses.
- Replace smoke detectors every 10 years, or as directed by the manufacturer.
- Dust and vacuum detectors at least twice a year
Make sure detectors are working when you return home after an extended absence.
When purchasing a smoke detector, the determining factor should be quality, not price. Make sure the detector has a laboratory label (UL) (FM) and an alarm loud enough to awaken a sleeping family. The detector should also have a malfunction signal for low batteries.
Smoke detectors save lives by giving occupants an early warning of toxic smoke. They are inexpensive, easy to purchase, and easy to install and maintain. Don't let yourself or your loved ones be without this early warning life saver. For further information, view our Smoke Alarms at Home brochure.
Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless, tasteless and nonirritating gas that is a natural by-product of combustion when fuel-burning appliances are operating. These appliances can include gas furnaces, gas water heaters, fireplaces, wood-burning stoves, gas ranges or ovens, gas dryers, kerosene heaters, charcoal/gas grills, lawn mowers, snow blowers, and chain saws. A crack in the flue system, blocked chimney, appliance malfunction or car left running in an attached garage are some of the ways CO can leak indoors, making residents sick. Exposure to lower levels of CO over several hours can be just as dangerous as exposure to higher levels for a few minutes. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning can mimic the flu and include headache, fatigue, sleepiness, nausea, trouble breathing, diarrhea and dizziness. Those most at risk are children, the elderly, pregnant women and people with lung or heart disease. Early detection of carbon monoxide is possible with a UL listed carbon monoxide detector placed on every level of the home. If the detector goes off, call 9-1-1, leave the house, and wait for help in a well-ventilated area. For further information, view our Carbon Monoxide Safety brochure.