Thursday, December 4, 2008

Be Prepared: Install Smoke Detectors

By Todd j Scott

Everyone should be prepared, in the event of a house fire. Almost all house fires start at night while people are sleeping, so it is important to have a warning system that will wake you in the event of a deadly fire. Smoke detectors save lives.

The U.S. government recommends that every household have several working detectors installed in case of emergencies. Just make sure you have at least one. Your safety is in your hands.

Every general hardware and home supply store carries battery operated smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors for carbon monoxide detection. Most of these are powered by 9-volt batteries. Read the back of the box to be sure you know which type of batteries you need to buy. Purchase enough to cover each level of your home.

Once your smoke detectors are hung, they are ready. However, the batteries should be replaced every year, because you would not want to have old batteries installed, just in case of a fire. If you have a home-maintenance list, then it is a good idea to put replacing the alarm batteries, in both detectors for smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, on the list so that you remember to change them. After ten years, the whole alarm should be replaced.

Most hardware stores and general supply stores carry battery operated smoke detectors for detecting smoke and fire, as well as carbon monoxide detectors for detecting carbon monoxide. Most run on 9 volt batteries, but check the label on the back of the box to make sure you are buying the right kind.

As a part of semi-annual home maintenance, it is recommended that you add a field on your list for changing the batteries. The entire alarm unit should be replaced within 10 years of the original purchase. Do not be surprised if your new alarm goes off while you are cooking. The alarm is working properly if this happens, so take comfort in knowing that simple fact.

Smoke detectors last a long time with proper maintenance. Testing the alarm once a month is a good thing to incorporate into your maintenance schedule to be sure it is always working. Create a fire plan with your family so that you all know what to do in case of a fire or even in the case of carbon monoxide detectors going off. You might also think about investing in two way radios, in case of family separation. It is impossible to be too prepared for an emergency. - 16492

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