Install/Check Smoke Alarms
Information about purchasing and installing a smoke alarm is available from many fire departments. Smoke alarms are an inexpensive method of alerting people in the household about a possible fire. There are many different types of smoke alarms including photo-cell, battery powered, and AC-powered; however, a normal battery powered smoke alarm is adequate for households. Smoke alarms are especially important at night when people are sleeping and may not as readily identify the smell of a fire or an increased temperature in the house.Smoke alarms should be installed on each level of the home with at least one near a bedroom. Normally alarms are installed away from the kitchen to avoid false alarms from cooking smoke. Since smoke rises, alarms should be mounted on the ceiling or high on the wall. Most smoke alarms are battery operated, therefore it is necessary to check the batteries at least once or twice a year and replace the smoke alarm every 10 years. Smoke alarms are also available for the hearing impaired and some alarms monitor carbon monoxide levels in the home.