Smoke Detectors
The importance of smoke detectors cannot be overestimated. Most fires occur at night,
while people sleep. The toxic gases from a fire can numb your senses, disorient
you and kill you while you sleep. For this reason, smoke detectors are a must. With
smoke detectors, your risk of dying in a home fire is cut in half.
- Install a detector in every bedroom and keep one centrally located on each floor
of your home.
- Hallways and kitchens are especially good locations for smoke detectors.
- Because smoke rises, mount smoke detectors either on the ceiling or high on a wall
(6-12 inches from the ceiling).
- Don't install smoke detectors by doors, windows or vents, where drafts could affect
their performance.
- Test and clean your smoke detector batteries about once a month. You'll need to
replace batteries about once a year.
- Never paint your smoke detector unit, because you might clog its smoke detecting
sensors.
- Gently vacuum your smoke detector and keep it free of dust and other foreign particles
that could hinder its abilities.