Smoke Detector:
Smoke detectors are devices that are mounted on the wall or
ceiling and automatically sound a warning when they sense smoke or other products
of combustion. When people are warned early enough about a fire, they can
escape before it spreads. Prices start at about $6 and up.
Every year thousands of people die from fires in the home.
Fire kills an estimated 4,000 Americans every year. Another 30,000 people
are seriously injured by fire each year. Property damage from fire costs us
at least $11.2 billion yearly. Most fire victims feel that fire would "never
happen to them."
Although we like to feel safe at home, about two-thirds of
our nation's fire deaths happen in the victim's own home. The home is where
we are at the greatest risk and where we must take the most precautions. Most
deaths occur from inhaling smoke or poisonous gases, not from the flames.
Most fatal fires occur in residential buildings between 11
p.m. and 6 a.m. when occupants are more likely to be asleep. More than 90
percent of fire deaths in buildings occur in residential dwellings.
A Johns Hopkins University study, funded by the United States
Fire Administration, found that 75 percent of residential fire deaths and
84 percent of residential fire injuries could have been prevented by smoke
detectors.
There are two basic type of smoke detectors:
-
Ionization detectors - Ionization detectors
contain radioactive material that ionizes the air, making an electrical
path. When smoke enters, the smoke molecules attach themselves to the ions.
The change in electric current flow triggers the alarm. The radioactive
material is called americium. It's a radioactive metallic element produced
by bombardment of plutonium with high energy neutrons. The amount is very
small and not harmful.
-
Photo-electric detectors - These type of detectors
contain a light source (usually a bulb) and a photocell, which is activated
by light. Light from the bulb reflects off the smoke particles and is directed
towards the photocell. The photocell then is activated to trigger the alarm.
Choosing a smoke detector
When choosing a smoke detector, there are several things to consider. Think
about which areas of the house you want to protect, where fire would be most
dangerous, how many you will need, etc.
The Bluffton Township Fire District recomends that every home
have a smoke detector outside each sleeping area (inside as well if members
of the household sleep with the door closed) and on every level of the home,
including the basement. The National Fire Alarm code requires a smoke detector
inside each sleeping area for new construction. On floors without bedrooms,
detectors should be installed in or near living areas, such as dens, living
rooms or family rooms. Smoke detectors are not recommended for kitchens.
The safest bet is to have both kinds or a combination detector
with a battery back up. Be sure to check for a testing laboratory label on
the detector. It means that samples of that particular model have been tested
under operating conditions. Check to see if it is easy to maintain and clean.
Be sure bulbs and batteries are easy to purchase and convenient to install.
Installation
The placement of smoke detectors is very important. Sleeping areas need the
most protection. One detector in a short hallway outside the bedroom area
is usually adequate. Hallways longer than 30 feet should have one at each
end. For maximum protection, install a detector in each bedroom.
Be sure to keep the detector away from fireplaces and wood
stoves to avoid false alarms. Place smoke detectors at the top of each stairwell
and at the end of each long hallway. Smoke rises easily through stairwells.
If you should put a smoke detector in your kitchen, be sure to keep it away
from cooking fumes or smoking areas.
Proper mounting of a smoke detector also is important. You
can mount many detectors by yourself, but those connected to your household
wiring should have their own separate circuit and be installed by a professional
electrician. If you mount your detector on the ceiling, be sure to keep it
at least 18 inches away from dead air space near walls and corners. If you
mount it on the wall, place it six to 12 inches below the ceiling and away
from corners. Keep them high because smoke rises.
Never place them any closer than three feet from an air register
that might recirculate smoke. Don't place them near doorways or windows where
drafts could impair the detector operation. Don't place them on an uninsulated
exterior wall or ceiling. Temperature extremes can affect the batteries.
Maintenance
Keeping smoke detectors in good condition is easy. Always follow the manufacturer's
instructions. Be sure to replace the batteries every year or as needed. Most
models will make a chirping, popping or beeping sound when the battery is
losing its charge. When this sound is heard, install a fresh battery, preferably
an alkaline type.
Replace bulbs every three years or as needed. Keep extras handy.
Check the smoke detector every 30 days by releasing smoke or pushing the test
button. Clean the detector face and grillwork often to remove dust and grease.
Never paint a smoke detector as it will hamper its function. Check your detector
if you've been away from home.
If you're looking for a novel gift for somebody, consider giving
them a smoke detector.
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