Smoke Alarms: Does Your Home Pass the Test?

Did you know that 3 out of 5 fire deaths occur in homes with no smoke alarms or non-working smoke alarms?

When a fire occurs, smoke will spread quickly. Having working smoke alarms will give you an early warning so you can get out fast.

Check out our list of 10 Quick Safety Tips for your home and see if your home would pass the test.

10 Smoke Alarm Safety Tips

• Smoke alarms should be installed in every bedroom, on every level of the home, and in the basement.
• If you have a large home, you will likely need additional smoke alarms.
• Install smoke alarms on the ceiling or high on the wall.
• Test your smoke alarms every month. (Try setting a reminder on your smart phone or write it on your calendar).
• Change the batteries! In fires where smoke alarms were present but did not sound 46% of them had missing or disconnected batteries. Keep a supply of new batteries on hand for convenient changing.
• Smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years.
• There are special alarms made for people who are deaf. These alarms have strobe lights and even bed shakers.
• When it is time to replace your smoke alarms - keep current with the newer technology, including a smoke alarm and a carbon monoxide combo.
• Use interconnected smoke alarms. When one sounds, they all sound. This may provide extra time to get out of the house.
• Close the doors! A closed door can slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire.

Smoke alarms area crucial part ofany homefire escape plan. Working smoke alarms will alertyou to get outside quickly. Onceyou’re out- StayOut! Nevergo backinto a burning building!

Would your home pass the test? Make checking your smoke alarms a priority - your life may someday depend on it.