Why should my home have smoke alarms?

In the event of a fire, a smoke alarm can save your life and those of your loved ones. They are the single most important means of preventing house and apartment fire fatalities by providing an early warning signal -- so you and your family can escape. Smoke alarms are one of the best safety features you can buy and install to protect yourself, your family and your home.

Okay, where do I put them?

Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, including the basement. Many fatal fires begin late at night or in the early morning. For extra safety, install smoke alarms both inside and outside the sleeping area.

Also, 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.

Where would I get smoke alarms?

Many hardware, home supply or general merchandise stores carry smoke alarms. Make sure the alarm you buy is UL-listed. If you are unsure where to buy one in your community, call your local fire department (on a non-emergency telephone number) and they will provide you with some suggestions. Some fire departments offer smoke alarms for little or no cost.

Are smoke alarms hard to install?

Not a bit. In most cases, all you will need is a screwdriver. Many brands are self-adhesive and will automatically stick to the wall or ceiling where they are placed. However, be sure to follow the directions from the manufacturer because each brand is different. If you are uncomfortable standing on a ladder, ask a relative or friend for help. Some fire departments will actually install a smoke alarm in your home for you. Call your local fire department (again, on a non-emergency telephone number) if you have problems installing a smoke alarm.

How do I keep my smoke alarms working?

Smoke alarms are very easy to take care of. There are two steps to remember.

1. Simply replace the batteries at least once a year.
   Tip: Pick a holiday or your birthday and replace the batteries each year on that day. Some smoke alarms now on the market come with a ten-year battery. These alarms are designed to be replaced as a whole unit, thus avoiding the need for battery replacement. If your smoke alarm starts making a "chirping" noise, replace the batteries and reset it.
2. Keep them clean. Dust and debris can interfere with their operation, so vacuum over and around your smoke alarm regularly.

What if the alarm goes off while I'm cooking?

Then it's doing its job. Do not disable your smoke alarm if it alarms due to cooking or other non-fire causes. You may not remember to put the batteries back in the alarm after cooking. Instead, clear the air by waving a towel near the alarm, leaving the batteries in place. The alarm may have to be moved to a new location.

How long will my smoke alarm last?

About eight-to-ten years, after which it should be replaced. Like most electrical devices, smoke alarms wear out. You may want to write the purchase date with a marker on the inside of your unit. That way, you'll know when to replace it. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for replacement.

Anything else I should know?

Some smoke alarms are considered to be "hard wired." This means they are connected to the household electrical system and may or may not have battery back-up. It's important to test every smoke alarm monthly. And always use new batteries when replacing old ones.

Portable Fire Extinguishers

Used properly, a portable fire extinguisher can save lives and property by putting out a small fire or controlling it until the fire department arrives.

    Portable extinguishers, intended for home, are not designed to fight large or spreading fires. However, even against small fires, they are useful only under certain conditions:

• The operator must know how to use the extinguisher. There is no time to read directions during an emergency.

• The extinguisher must be within easy reach and in working order, fully charged.

• Some models are unsuitable for use on grease or electrical fires.

Extinguishers Fitting the Fire

    Choose your fire extinguisher carefully, and should also be labeled as to the type of fire it is intended to extinguish.

    The extinguisher must be large enough to put out the fire. Most portable extinguishers discharge completely in as few as eight seconds.

Classes of Fires: There three basic classes of fires. All fire extinguishers are labeled with standard symbols for the classes of fires they put out. A red slash through any of the symbols tells you the extinguisher cannot be used on that class of fire.

Class A: Ordinary combustibles such as wood, cloth and paper
Class B: Flammable liquids such as gasoline, oil and oil-based paint.
Class C: Energized electrical equipment, including wiring, fuse boxes, and appliances.

How to Use a Fire Extinguisher

Only fight a fire if you feel confident to continue.  Keep your back to an unobstructed exit and begin by standing 6-8 feet away from the fire.  Follow the four-step PASS procedure - Pull, Aim, Squeeze and Sweep: Always be sure the fire department inspects the fire site.

1). Pull the Pin. This unlocks the locking lever.
2). Aim low, point the extinguisher nozzle at the base of the fire.
3). Squeeze the lever above the handle.  Some extinguishers may have a button.
4). Sweep from side to side, aiming at the base of the fire.