Important Information About Smoke Alarms: Installation, Maintenance, and Testing
Smoke alarms save lives by providing an effective early warning system against fire and smoke. The piercing alarm sound can wake you even from the deepest sleep, giving you the crucial time to escape, call the fire department, or attempt to extinguish the fire. We have summarized the most critical information about fire safety in your own home in a brochure, which you can download here.
Properly installed and maintained smoke alarms help prevent fires, reducing the risk of fatalities by half.
In this article, you will learn how to install, maintain, and test smoke alarms.
Installation of Smoke Alarms
Ensure that all critical areas, such as bedrooms, kitchens, hallways, etc., are equipped with devices.
Pro-tip: Avoid placing smoke alarms near drafty areas and devices such as windows, fans, and air conditioners, as strong airflow can prevent smoke from reaching the detector.
Mounting the Bracket
Place the bracket on the wall or ceiling. Mark the spots for screw fixation with a pencil and drill holes using a drill.
Insert plastic anchors into the holes. Fasten the brackets with two screws into the anchors, making sure not to overtighten to avoid breaking the bracket.
Insert the batteries into the smoke alarm. Open the battery compartment carefully using your fingers. Follow the markings inside and insert the batteries in the correct positions.
Then, attach the smoke alarm to the bracket.
Hold it over the bracket and press it against the holder. Twist it until it clicks into place – that's it, you're done!
Maintenance of the Smoke Alarm
Follow these steps to maintain your smoke alarm.
Monthly
Test your smoke alarms monthly by pressing the test button until the alarm sounds.
Every Six Months
Check your smoke alarms every six months for dust accumulation.
Annually
Clean your smoke alarms with a vacuum cleaner once a year to remove dust and other particles that might hinder the detector's performance. Also, replace the battery once a year.
Every Ten Years
Replace all smoke alarms every ten years. The date until which the detector's functionality is ensured can be found on the alarm's base.
Testing Smoke Alarms
To test if your smoke alarm is working:
- Inform your family members that you will test the alarm.
- Press and hold the test button.
The loud sound of a smoke alarm can startle small children and cause panic in adults. So, let everyone know that you will be testing the alarm. Additionally, ask for assistance from others when testing the alarm.Have other family members stand at the furthest point from the alarm. This way, you can verify if the sound is audible throughout your home. Consider installing additional smoke alarms in areas where the sound is muffled or weak.
It may take a few seconds for the alarm to activate, but when you press the test button, a loud, high-pitched sound should be heard. Replace the batteries if you don't hear any sound or if it is weak.
Conclusion
Installing smoke alarms contributes to your family's safety, but assuming that the detectors always work can put your loved ones at risk. Therefore, install, maintain, and test your smoke alarms properly to ensure everyone's safety.
As an additional precaution, assemble a fire safety kit with a fire blanket, fire extinguisher, smoke mask, and fireproof gloves.
Don't wait until it's too late; take action now to ensure your family's safety, including ordering a Lifestyle Fire Blanket from ASK THE FOX!
