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Many other kinds of fire alarms are available through a wide variety of retailers. Alarms may be designed to detect such
factors as high temperatures, rapid changes in temperature and certain
gases produced in fires. However, these alarms are not as effective as smoke alarms in giving the first warning when a fire breaks out. Heat
alarms are not required in homes, but they may be used for optional extra
protection in areas like kitchens, attics and garages where detection devices
are susceptible to nuisance alarms.
Since smoke and deadly gases rise, alarms should be
placed on the ceiling at least four inches from the nearest wall, or high
on a wall, four to 12 inches from the ceiling. This four-inch minimum is important
to keep alarms out of possible dead air spaces, because hot air is turbulent
and may bounce so much it misses spots near a surface. Installing alarms
near a window, door or fireplace is not recommended because drafts could
detour smoke away from the unit. In rooms where the ceiling has an extremely
high point, such as in vaulted ceilings, mount the alarm at or near the
ceiling's highest point.
Maintenance is a must
What good are smoke alarms that don't work? No good at all! That's why
it is important that you keep your smoke alarms in good shape.
Maintaining a smoke alarms is easy. Just follow these tips:
- Testing: Whether your alarms are hard-wired or battery-operated, the National
Fire Protection Association recommends testing them once a month to
make sure they are operating. A working smoke alarm greatly reduces
your chances of dying in a home fire. Testing is the only way to ensure
they are working to protect you. Test each alarm by pushing the test
button and listening for the alarm. If you can't reach, stand under
the alarm and push the test button with a broom handle.
- Replacing Batteries: If your smoke alarms are battery operated, replace the batteries according
to the manufacturer's instructions. Doing this at least once a year
is recommended or especially when the alarm chirps, alerting you that
the battery power is low. Replace the batteries immediately if you move
into a new home. Make sure no one disables your smoke alarms by borrowing
batteries for other uses. Everyone you live with should understand how
critical it is to have working smoke alarms.
- Cleaning: Just as you clean your home, your smoke alarms need to be cleaned. Make
sure you follow the manufacturer's instructions about cleaning. Cobwebs
and dust usually can be removed with a vacuum cleaner attachment. If
you are going to be doing work nearby that could send dust in the air,
cover the alarm temporarily. Also, protect the alarm if you are painting
around it, and never paint on it. Remove the shield promptly after work
is completed.
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708.445.3300
Fire@oak-park.us
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